Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Before you begin, ensure you have the right supplies. The most crucial component is culinary-grade lavender, specifically Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender. Other types, such as Spanish lavender, contain high levels of camphor and can result in a bitter, soapy taste.
Required Ingredients
- Culinary-grade dried lavender buds: The quantity will vary depending on your desired concentration. Approximately 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water is a good starting point for a mild infusion.
- Water: Use filtered water for the cleanest taste.
- Optional sweeteners: Honey, agave, or sugar can be added to taste.
- Optional flavor enhancements: Lemon juice, mint, or other herbs can complement the floral notes.
Essential Equipment
- A clean pitcher or glass jar
- A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- A saucepan (for the simple syrup method)
Method 1: Cold-Infused Lavender Water (No-Heat)
This method creates a delicate, refreshing drink perfect for hot days. It's gentle and preserves the subtle flavors of the lavender.
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Add 2-3 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender buds to a large pitcher or jar. Pour 4 cups of cold, filtered water over the buds.
- Infuse: Stir the mixture gently and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a stronger flavor. The longer it infuses, the more pronounced the lavender taste will be.
- Strain: After infusing, pour the water through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a serving container. Discard the lavender buds.
- Serve: Serve chilled over ice. For extra flavor, add fresh lemon slices or mint sprigs. The infused water can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Method 2: Hot-Steeped Lavender Simple Syrup
This is a more concentrated option that is excellent for mixing into cocktails, lemonade, or iced teas. The heat extracts more of the lavender's essential oils and flavor.
Instructions
- Make the concentrate: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add lavender: Remove the pan from the heat. Add 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender buds to the hot sugar water.
- Steep: Cover the pan and let the mixture steep for 20-30 minutes. Longer steeping will result in a more robust flavor.
- Strain and store: Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean jar, pressing the buds to extract all the liquid. Let it cool completely before sealing. The simple syrup will last in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- Use: To create lavender water for drinking, mix 1-2 tablespoons of the simple syrup with a cup of cold, filtered water, adjusting the ratio to your taste.
Choosing the Right Lavender: A Comparison
To avoid a bitter or overwhelming flavor, selecting the correct type of lavender is essential. Not all lavender is created equal, especially for culinary applications.
| Feature | English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) | Ornamental Lavenders (e.g., Spanish, French) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Culinary? | Yes, the gold standard due to low camphor content. | No, often contains high camphor levels, leading to a pungent, medicinal flavor. |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, floral, with subtle mint notes. | Sharper, woodier, often bitter or camphorous. |
| Sourcing | Look for products explicitly labeled "culinary grade" or "organic". | Commonly found in garden centers for landscaping. |
| Texture of Buds | Vibrant blue-purple color when dried, not grayish. | Varies by species, often used for fragrance. |
Conclusion
Making lavender water for drinking is a straightforward process that offers a calming and refreshing beverage option. Whether you prefer the subtle infusion of the cold-brew method or the concentrated flavor of a simple syrup, the key to a delicious drink lies in using high-quality, culinary-grade lavender. By following these simple steps, you can create a delightful herbal drink for relaxation or a fragrant mixer for creative cocktails. Remember to always use the correct type of lavender and enjoy the soothing benefits of this versatile herb. For more information on culinary uses of herbs, visit a reliable source such as a major culinary or health website.
Possible Health Benefits of Drinking Lavender Water
While not a substitute for medical advice, drinking lavender tea or water may offer several benefits based on traditional use and limited studies.
- Promotes Relaxation: Inhaling the aroma of lavender and consuming it as a tea has been linked to calming the nervous system and potentially reducing anxiety.
- Aids Digestion: Lavender can soothe an upset stomach and relieve gas and indigestion, with its scent also acting as a digestive stimulant.
- Improves Sleep Quality: The calming effects of lavender can help promote better sleep, especially when consumed as a warm tea before bed.
- Reduces Inflammation: Lavender contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help in reducing inflammation, both internally and when applied topically.
