What To Do With Culinary Lavender

Culinary lavender is an edible variety of lavender that you can use in both sweet and savory dishes.
 
Unlike the ornamental lavender in your garden, culinary lavender is grown specifically for cooking, with a sweeter and more delicate flavor.
 
If you’ve been wondering what to do with culinary lavender, you’re in for a treat because there are so many delicious possibilities.
 
It’s not just for fancy desserts either, as culinary lavender works beautifully in drinks, main courses, and even salad dressings.
 
In this post, we’ll explore what to do with culinary lavender, from baking ideas to savory recipes, so you can make the most of this fragrant herb.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

What to Do with Culinary Lavender in Sweet Recipes

One of the most popular things to do with culinary lavender is to use it in sweet recipes.
 
The floral notes pair beautifully with sugar, honey, and vanilla.
 
Here are some of the best ways to put culinary lavender to work in your desserts.
 

1. Bake Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Lavender shortbread is a classic way to use culinary lavender.
 
You simply add a teaspoon of finely ground culinary lavender to your dough.
 
The result is a buttery cookie with a subtle floral taste that feels fancy but is actually easy to make.
 
Just be careful not to overdo it because a little culinary lavender goes a long way.
 

2. Make Lavender Simple Syrup

Lavender simple syrup is one of the most versatile things to do with culinary lavender.
 
You simmer equal parts sugar and water, then steep culinary lavender buds in the mixture for about 15 minutes.
 
Strain it, and you’ve got a sweet, fragrant syrup you can drizzle over cakes, pancakes, or ice cream.
 
You can also use it to sweeten your coffee or cocktails for a unique twist.
 

3. Add It to Ice Cream or Custard

Another great way to enjoy culinary lavender is to infuse it into ice cream or custard bases.
 
The creamy texture of dairy complements the floral flavor perfectly.
 
Just steep culinary lavender in warm cream, strain it out, and then proceed with your favorite ice cream recipe.
 
Homemade lavender ice cream is a showstopper dessert that will impress anyone who tries it.
 

4. Mix It into Lemonade or Tea

Culinary lavender adds a lovely twist to lemonade and tea.
 
You can brew a lavender-infused simple syrup and stir it into fresh lemonade for a refreshing summer drink.
 
Or you can add a few culinary lavender buds to your favorite tea blend for a calming, aromatic cup.
 
This is one of the simplest things to do with culinary lavender, and it’s perfect for relaxing afternoons.
 

What to Do with Culinary Lavender in Savory Dishes

Culinary lavender isn’t just for sweets.
 
It works surprisingly well in savory recipes too, adding depth and aroma to all kinds of dishes.
 
If you want to branch out, here are some savory ideas for what to do with culinary lavender.
 

1. Use It in Herb Blends for Roasted Meats

One of the best savory uses for culinary lavender is in a dry rub or herb blend for roasted meats.
 
It pairs especially well with lamb, chicken, and pork.
 
Combine culinary lavender with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper, then rub it onto your meat before roasting.
 
The lavender adds a subtle floral note that cuts through the richness of the meat beautifully.
 

2. Sprinkle It into Salads and Dressings

You can also use culinary lavender in salad dressings for a unique flavor boost.
 
A little lavender-infused honey or vinegar can transform a simple vinaigrette.
 
You can also sprinkle a few culinary lavender buds over a fruit salad or a goat cheese salad for a delicate floral finish.
 
It’s a simple way to elevate your everyday salads with minimal effort.
 

3. Add It to Soups and Stews

Culinary lavender can even find a home in soups and stews.
 
Add a small amount to a hearty vegetable soup or a slow-cooked stew for a subtle herbal background note.
 
Just remember to use it sparingly because too much can overpower the other flavors.
 
When used correctly, culinary lavender adds a lovely complexity that keeps people guessing what the secret ingredient is.
 

4. Infuse It into Honey or Butter

Another wonderful thing to do with culinary lavender is to infuse it into honey or butter.
 
Warm some honey gently and steep culinary lavender buds in it, then strain.
 
You’ll have a fragrant lavender honey that’s amazing drizzled over cheese, biscuits, or yogurt.
 
Similarly, you can whip culinary lavender into softened butter for a gourmet spread that takes toast to a whole new level.
 

Tips for Cooking with Culinary Lavender

Before you rush off to try all these ideas, here are a few tips to keep in mind when you cook with culinary lavender.
 

1. Use It Sparingly

Culinary lavender is potent, so a little goes a long way.
 
Start with a small amount and adjust as you go.
 
Too much culinary lavender can make a dish taste soapy or medicinal, which is the last thing you want.
 

2. Grind It Before Using

Grinding culinary lavender buds helps distribute the flavor more evenly.
 
You can use a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle.
 
This is especially helpful in baked goods where you don’t want whole buds in every bite.
 

3. Choose the Right Variety

Not all lavender is edible.
 
Make sure you’re using culinary lavender, such as English lavender, which is known for its sweet and mild flavor.
 
Ornamental lavender may be treated with pesticides and can taste harsh or bitter.
 

So, What to Do with Culinary Lavender?

Culinary lavender is an incredibly versatile ingredient that you can use in both sweet and savory dishes.
 
From lavender shortbread and simple syrup to herb rubs and infused honey, the options for what to do with culinary lavender are nearly endless.
 
The key is to use it sparingly and pair it with ingredients that complement its floral flavor.
 
Hope this post has helped you explore what to do with culinary lavender so you can start experimenting in your kitchen with confidence.