Simple syrups are just that, really simple to make. And they are a fun way to spice up your diet with some exotic flavors. All you need to make a batch of simple syrup is sugar, water and whatever herb or spice you choose to use.
Lavender makes a wonderful simple syrup. I simmer culinary lavender bud in the syrup for about 10 minutes to extract as much flavor as possible.
Lavender simple syrup in seltzer water is one of my favorite beverages. It’s so refreshing and the flavor is lovely. You can also get creative mixing it in smoothies, juices, kombucha or cocktails.
In hot beverages, lavender syrup is the jam. Try a dash in coffee, hot chocolate, hot milk or tea.
Drizzle lavender simple syrup over yogurt, fruit, ice cream or pound cake to dress up the usual dessert fare and make it special. Try a dash stirred in to whipped heavy cream then dollop on strawberries or blueberries.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup water
3 TBSPs culinary lavender buds
3 inches lemon peel
1 1/3 cup sugar
DIRECTIONS
Bring water, lavender buds and lemon peel to a boil. Add the sugar, lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Allow the simple syrup to cool to room temperature. Strain the syrup into a clean jar and store in the refrigerator.
I like to use a clean 10 ounce glass seltzer bottle fitted with a stainless steel vented pourer.
