Ideas for lavender in the kitchen

For centuries lavender has been used as a versatile flavouring in both sweet and savoury dishes. At the moment it is very popular in the culinary world.

There are two ways of cooking with lavender:

1. using lavender directly in food or

2. using a lavender infusion to compliment the smooth texture of the dish. This method is popular in cheesecakes, lavender custard and fridge tarts.

I prefer to cook with Lavandula Intermedia ( commonly known as Margaret Robberts lavender) as it does not taste of camphor. The buds can be used fresh or dried. Lavender has a strong taste and should be used sparingly. Less is more!

You don't need special lavender recipe books. Simply add lavender to your favourite recipe. Use about 5ml of Margaret Robberts flowers for every cup of flour. Experiment and be creative!

• Add lavender buds to a jar of sugar to give it a sweet aroma. Use this sugar for baking.

• Add lavender to preserves or fruit compotes to bring in subtle spicy notes.

• Fresh lavender is a lovely garnish to a salad, cakes and deserts.

• Use fresh lavender to infuse teas, cocktails, gin and other beverages.

• Make Herbes de Provence by blending dried lavender with thyme and rosemary.

Watch this space for lavender recipes!