Gather Your Supplies
Before embarking on your lavender-infused honey adventure, you will need to gather the necessary supplies:
- A clean glass jar with an airtight lid
- 1 cup of high-quality honey
- 1/4 cup of dried culinary lavender
- A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Selecting the Perfect Lavender
When it comes to lavender, not all varieties are created equal. Choose culinary lavender, such as Lavandula angustifolia, to ensure the best flavor and optimal infusion. Culinary lavender is typically less bitter, making it ideal for culinary purposes.
Preparing the Lavender
Before infusing the lavender into honey, it’s important to properly prepare it:
- Measure out 1/4 cup of dried culinary lavender.
- Gently crush the lavender using a mortar and pestle, releasing its essential oils and enhancing the infusion process.
The Infusion Process
Now that your lavender is ready, it’s time to start infusing it into the honey:
- Pour the honey into the glass jar, leaving some space at the top.
- Add the crushed lavender into the jar, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the honey.
- Seal the jar tightly with the airtight lid.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place, allowing the mixture to infuse for at least one week.
Straining and Storing
After patiently waiting, it’s time to strain and store your lavender-infused honey:
- Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a clean container.
- Pour the infused honey through the strainer, allowing the liquid to separate from the lavender remnants.
- Gently press on the lavender remnants to extract any remaining honey.
- Transfer the strained honey into a clean, airtight jar for storage.
Enjoying Your Lavender-Infused Honey
Now that you have your homemade lavender-infused honey, you can enjoy it in various ways:
- Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a touch of floral sweetness.
- Add a spoonful to your favorite herbal tea for a soothing and aromatic experience.
- Use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables or grilled meats to infuse them with a unique flavor.
- Spread it on toast or biscuits for a delightful twist on your morning routine.
Remember to store your lavender-infused honey in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness and flavor. With this simple step-by-step guide, you can easily create this exquisite combination that will elevate both your culinary creations and your sensory experience. Enjoy!