Lavender buds can absolutely be used for cooking, but it's important to be mindful of a few key things to ensure a delicious and safe result. When used correctly, lavender adds a unique, floral-herbal note to both sweet and savory dishes, bringing a touch of that tranquil lavender farm essence to your kitchen.
The first and most important consideration is to use a variety of lavender that is specifically labeled as "culinary-grade." Not all types of lavender are suitable for consumption. English lavender, known as Lavandula angustifolia, is the most common and preferred choice for cooking because it has a sweeter, more delicate flavor profile. Other varieties, like some French lavandins, can have a much higher camphor content, which can make dishes taste bitter or soapy. When you're looking to buy lavender online for cooking, always check the product description to confirm it is food-safe and culinary-grade.
The key to cooking with lavender is to use it in moderation. Its flavor is quite potent, and a little goes a long way. Think of it as a background flavor, similar to how you would use rosemary or thyme, rather than the main ingredient. If you use too much, the dish can quickly become overpowering. A good rule of thumb is to start with a small amount, like a quarter or half teaspoon, and then adjust to your taste.
Lavender buds can be used in a variety of ways. In baking, they pair beautifully with citrus flavors like lemon, as well as with vanilla, chocolate, and berries. You can infuse them into sugar to create a scented sugar that can be used in cookies, cakes, and scones. They can also be steeped in warm milk or cream to create a base for ice cream, custards, or whipped cream. For savory dishes, lavender is a classic ingredient in the herb blend herbes de Provence, which is wonderful on roasted meats like chicken or lamb. You can also use it to infuse olive oil or to create unique spice rubs for grilling.
For those who have fond memories of visiting a lavender farm in a place like Door County WI and want to experiment with this versatile herb, a high-quality culinary-grade product is the place to start. You can find aromatic lavender buds perfect for a variety of uses at this link: https://islandlavender.com/products/aromatic-lavender-buds-small. Enjoy exploring the delicious and fragrant world of cooking with lavender!