Friday, October 28, 2011

Preserving Lavender


Although the first frost has arrived, there are still remnants of protected lavender blossoms in the garden. Although the shrubs are not as prolific as they are in the spring and summer, the second round of blossoms can be appealing and are as fragrant as the first. If you'd like a gentle reminder of this lovely flower during the winter months, you might wish to preserve some of the buds by crystalizing them. They are great to use for decorating a cake, as a swizzle for tea, or for garnish on a fruit salad. Here's how:

Mix equal parts of water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. After five minutes, remove the mixture from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.

Hold a lavender stem securily in your hand and dip the bud into the syrupy mixture. Then place on parchament or wax paper to dry. Repeat process with additional lavender stems and bud.

Store in a cool, dry place. Be sure it is out of direct sonlight.

Then. . .enjoy!

8 comments:

  1. What a beautiful lavender garden!

    I just froze a few of my herbs knowing that a big freeze is on its way along with snow. Perhaps they'll come back next spring. I don't always have luck with overwintering herbs.

    ReplyDelete
  2. How very lovely and fence really is attractive!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Such a great idea. Crystallized lavender ~ I would love to do this! Thank you for posting this!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Oh, wow, La Tea Dah. That lavendar garden rocks! It's a dazzler. Susan

    ReplyDelete
  5. I so admire your lavender garden.:)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I have dried my lavender and used for potpourri, but never crystalized them. I am going to check if I have any left and use your recipe, thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Great idea. Happy fall!

    ReplyDelete
  8. I finally picked a bouquet of lavender a couple days ago and enjoying them in the house.

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for commenting on my blog post. I am always happy to hear from blog readers. Your words encourage and inspire me. I am glad you stopped by to share conversation, recipes, ideas, and thoughts on creating a welcoming home.