Cooking with Lavender

The lore of lavender is filled with stories of its powerful influences on love, war, and politics. In the kitchen, however, delicacy is lavender’s contribution. Just a little goes a long way for most people; for those who want a stronger taste of the herb, add a bit more to the recipe.

Lavender Recipes:

• Lavender Herb Tea
• Lavender-Wine Crunchies
• Herbes de Provence
• Lavender Vinegar
• Lavender-Red Wine Butter
• Tuna with Fennel and Lavender

Just a Touch of Lavender

For other ways of using lavender, try these tips.

+ Lay bundles of fresh lavender on hot coals when you are grilling poultry or vegetables.
+ Add dried lavender to the wood chips in a smoker; this is especially good with fish.
+ Bury a couple of fresh lavender flowers in the sugar bowl or add a few to a jar of honey.
+ Add a teaspoon of crumbled lavender flowers to the filling for apple pie or apple crisp.
+ For a fragrant prelude to restful sleep, stitch a tablespoon of dried lavender flowers into a little muslin bag and stuff it between your pillow and pillowcase.
+ Sprinkle several drops of lavender oil on a small bundle of dried lavender and place it above the radiator or heating vent to fill a room with scent.