Refreshing Lavender Cordial Food

PROVENCE LAVENDER CORDIAL-SYRUP

Steps:

• Heat sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely.
• Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat.
• Add the lavender flowers (and the herbes de Provence, if using).
• Cover, and let flowers steep for 30-45 minutes.
• Strain through a fine mesh sieve or paper coffee filter into a measuring glass (with a lip for easy pouring).
• Add lemon juice.
• Pour into a clean container (preferably sterilized), cap, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze.
• Note: the syrup will not freeze solid-- you will be able to scoop out a spoonful easily!
• Stir a spoonful of Lavender Syrup into your favorite beverage! It's delicious in lemonade, tea or ice-water. Try it in my Provence Cocktail, recipe # 250030. OR, drizzle over pancakes, waffles, French toast, scones, fruit, puddings, cakes or ice cream. Thicken with confectioner's sugar to make an exquisite glaze for cookies or cakes.
• Makes a beautiful hostess gift tied with a pretty ribbon!

REFRESHING LAVENDER CORDIAL

Steps:

• Put the water and sugar into a pan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved completely.
• Add the lavender flowers and bring to the boil. Remove from the heat; cover the pan and leave to infuse for 30-45 minutes.
• Strain the liquid into a pan and reheat, stirring all the time, until the mixture is syrupy. Cool completely. Pour into a sterilised bottle, seal tightly and leave to cool.
• Store in the refrigerator.
• Dilute with chilled sparkling mineral water to serve - or champagne/sparkling wine for a special occasion.