Provence Lavender Cordial-Syrup: A Taste of Summer
The scent of lavender always transports me back to my grandmother’s garden in the south of France. The air, thick with the buzzing of bees and the warmth of the sun, was perfumed with her prized lavender bushes. She would often make a simple syrup infused with those fragrant flowers, stirring it into our lemonade on hot summer afternoons. That delicate, floral sweetness is a taste of childhood I’ve carried with me, and this recipe is my attempt to recapture that pure, sun-drenched memory.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Steep Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups of Syrup
- Servings: 14
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup fresh organic edible lavender flowers (or 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers)
- 1 tablespoon herbes de provence (optional)
- 1 small fresh lemon, juice of
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Fine mesh sieve or paper coffee filter
- Measuring glass with a lip
- Clean container (preferably sterilized)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. This is crucial to prevent crystallization later.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the lavender flowers (and the herbes de Provence, if using). The heat will help release their aromatic oils.
- Cover the saucepan tightly. This traps the steam and allows the lavender to steep properly, infusing the syrup with its flavor.
- Let the flowers steep for 30-45 minutes. The longer the steeping time, the stronger the lavender flavor. Taste periodically after 30 minutes to achieve your desired intensity.
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or paper coffee filter into a measuring glass (with a lip for easy pouring). This removes the spent lavender flowers and any small particles, resulting in a clear and smooth syrup.
- Add the lemon juice. This brightens the flavor and acts as a natural preservative.
- Pour the lavender syrup into a clean container (preferably sterilized). Sterilizing the container helps prolong the syrup’s shelf life.
- Cap the container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
- Note: the syrup will not freeze solid– you will be able to scoop out a spoonful easily!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Use high-quality lavender: Opt for organic, culinary-grade lavender flowers for the best flavor and aroma. Avoid lavender from nurseries or florists, as it may have been treated with pesticides.
- Don’t over-boil: Boiling the syrup for too long can result in a thick, overly sweet syrup. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches a boil.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet syrup, reduce the amount of sugar slightly. Conversely, increase the sugar for a sweeter syrup.
- Sterilize your container: To sterilize, boil the container and lid in water for 10 minutes. Allow to air dry completely before filling with the syrup.
- Experiment with herbs: While herbes de Provence adds a lovely savory note, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or mint to create unique flavor combinations.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Provence Lavender Cordial-Syrup is incredibly versatile!
- Beverages: Stir a spoonful into lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, or cocktails. It adds a delicate floral note that elevates any drink.
- Desserts: Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, French toast, scones, fruit salads, puddings, cakes, or ice cream. It’s a delightful addition to any sweet treat.
- Glazes: Thicken the syrup with confectioner’s sugar to make an exquisite glaze for cookies, cakes, or pastries.
- Gift Giving: Package the syrup in a pretty bottle, tie it with a lavender ribbon, and give it as a thoughtful hostess or Christmas gift.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for longer storage. The syrup will not freeze solid, making it easy to scoop out a spoonful as needed.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 28 kcal | 1% |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 0.5mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0% |
| Sugars | 7g | 14% |
| Protein | 0g | 0% |
Variations & Substitutions
- Honey Lavender Syrup: Substitute honey for granulated sugar for a more complex flavor.
- Agave Lavender Syrup: Use agave nectar as a vegan alternative to sugar.
- Citrus Variations: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as orange or grapefruit, in place of lemon.
- Spice Infusion: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or star anise to the syrup during the steeping process for a warm and inviting flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use dried lavender instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried lavender for fresh. Use 2 tablespoons of dried lavender for every 1/2 cup of fresh lavender flowers.
Q: How long will the syrup last?
A: The syrup will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator or several months in the freezer.
Q: Can I use lavender essential oil instead of flowers?
A: No, do not use lavender essential oil unless it is specifically labeled as food-grade and safe for internal use. Even then, use with extreme caution as it is very concentrated. It is much safer and tastier to use lavender flowers.
Q: My syrup crystallized. What did I do wrong?
A: Crystallization can occur if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved during the initial heating process or if the syrup is boiled for too long. Next time, ensure the sugar is completely dissolved before boiling and avoid over-boiling. You can try to re-dissolve the crystals by gently heating the syrup with a little more water.
Q: Where can I find culinary-grade lavender flowers?
A: You can find culinary-grade lavender flowers online or at specialty food stores. Make sure to purchase lavender that is specifically intended for culinary use.
Final Thoughts
This Provence Lavender Cordial-Syrup is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey to a sun-drenched garden, a whisper of floral sweetness, and a taste of pure summer bliss. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of lavender for yourself. Share your creations and variations with others, and let the aroma of Provence fill your kitchen. Pair it with a simple shortbread cookie, a glass of chilled rosé, and let the stresses of the day melt away.