Try this feminine twist on a classic -
Lavender Sidecar
+ 1 1/2 oz Brandy
+ 1/4 oz Cointreau
+ 1/2 oz Lavender Honey Syrup (I used Lavender Simple Syrup)
+ 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
+ dash of orange bitters
(Recipe from The Art of Bar)
I recently bought some dried lavender at the farmers market (for 67 cents), with no idea what I was going to do with it. Well, I found something! Lavender simple syrup! This was too easy, and so delicious I think it is what I am going to give everyone come Christmas. Shown above is a simple straining process using a coffee filter. I included the recipe and some ideas for lavender cocktails below. It’s also fab in hot black tea, iced tea, or lemonade.
*Tip: To help preserve the simple syrup, add a little bit of vodka to the finished product.
Recipe for lavender simple syrup (from Zoe Bakes):
+ 3 tablespoons dried or fresh lavender flowers
+ 1 cup water
+ 1 cup granulated sugar
Directions: In a sauce pot bring the water, sugar and lavender to a simmer. Allow to simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and let sit until cool. Use or store in the refrigerator for up to a month. The longer you let the lavender steep in the simple syrup the stronger the flavor will be. I store it in the refrigerator with the flowers still in the syrup and strain it when I need it in a recipe. (*3 days worked great for me).
Ideas for use of lavender simple syrup:
Lavender Vodka Tonic (from NPR):
+ 1 tablespoon lavender simple syrup
+ 2 ounces of vodka
+ 6 to 8 ounces of tonic water.
Directions: Combine the lavender syrup and the vodka in a cocktail shaker and shake with plenty of ice. Strain into an ice-filled highball glass. Top off with tonic water and stir before drinking.
Lavender Gin and Tonic Recipe (from Suite 101):
+1 tablespoon lavender simple syrup
+ 1 shot (1.5 ounces) quality gin (I recommend Hendrick’s)
+ Ice and club soda to fill glass
+ 1 slice fresh lime
Directions: Combine gin, simple syrup, squeezed slice of lime, and club soda. Toss to mix and serve in a chilled glass. Garnish with lime and lavender sprig.
Other:
Simply add to prosecco or champagne.
Photo credit: Lush Lady
