One of my favorite things to do each summer is to stop by Red Bird Farm and check out the fresh u-cut flowers. In particular, I always look forward to taking some of their lush, aromatic lavender home with me. Whether it is keeping the lavender as part of a floral arrangement or utilizing the lavender to bring new flavor to my morning cup of coffee – there is a reason this flower is as beautiful as it is versatile.
DIY Lavender Simple Syrup
The first time I ever tried a lavender latte, I didn’t quite know what to make of it – I had never had a coffee taste like an aroma that is typically reserved for my sense of smell. But overtime, I came to savor the way my morning cup of joe reflected the seasonal delights of nature. That is why, when I brought home some freshly cut lavender last summer, I knew I wanted to make my own lavender simple syrup to flavor my coffee.
I followed a recipe from AllRecipes, and it requires 1 cup of water, 1 cup white sugar, and 1 tablespoon fresh lavender blossoms. All you do is, (1) combine all the ingredients in a saucepan, (2) bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves, (3) reduce heat and simmer for a minute and, (4) remove from the stove and let the flavors meld for 30 minutes. Once this is completed, you can pour the syrup through a mesh strainer into a container of your choosing.
Personally, I enjoy utilizing the simple syrup for my coffee. I add 1-2 teaspoons of the simple syrup into some milk before frothing, and then I pour the infused milk over my espresso. The end product is a light, floral-infused tasting latte. Coffee isn’t the only way to enjoy the simple syrup, though. A friend of mine used some in a delicious homemade lemonade recipe.
DIY Lavender Sachets
This summer, I plan on utilizing lavender to create homemade lavender sachets for my drawers and linen closet. In order to do this, you have to first dry out the lavender. This is done by taking a bundle of lavender, tying it together with some twine, and hanging it upside down for 2-4 weeks. After the lavender is dried-out, you collect the dried petals, place them in a sachet, and stash them in a location of your choosing. The end result is an all-natural relaxing scent.
Whether it’s with lavender or another type of natural by-product from the outdoors, I encourage you to explore the simple pleasure of bringing the outdoors inside your home this summer.
