Dear Oliver,
I know you recently highlighted your Oliver Pluff & Co. lavender tea, which is “a
refreshing black tea blend with lavender blossoms.”
“Lavender is a flowering plant in the mint family that is native to the Mediterranean
coast. It is also cultivated for its essential oils and fragrant blossoms, as well as its floral notes in the tea.”
“We take dried lavender buds and blend them with a black tea base to create a
wonderful aromatic floral blend with a touch of natural sweetness.” This tea is available
sealed in pyramid-style tea bags, in loose leaf canisters, and sold by the pound.
But, you also have a product that is a pure lavender, which is available in tea bags as
well.
Homediningkitchen suggests that “lavender can also be used to make delicious and
refreshing beverages. One popular way to use lavender in drinks is to make a lavender
syrup, which can be used to flavor lemonade, iced tea, or cocktails.
To make a lavender syrup, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, and 1/4 cup
dried lavender buds in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly. Strain the syrup and let it cool before using.”
The twinflamelavenderfarm suggests many uses for a lavender syrup. Of course, there
are many cocktails and mocktails that utilize the delicious blend, but thinking a little
outside the drink box can yield lavender syrup as a nice drizzle on many foods such as
ice cream, oatmeal, or pancakes. Or, it can be used for more savory dishes such as
roasted potatoes or tomatoes.
Additionally, stirring a little lavender into whipped cream or salad dressings can add
another dimension to those flavors as well.
Of course, you can sweeten your lavender tea as well or mix some with milk for a
delicious hot or cold beverage.
So, as the height of lavender season approaches, June through early July in South
Carolina, you may want to partake in some lavender-inspired cooking to celebrate the
season or just to relax into summer. Enjoy!