Wayyy back when I first started this blog, in my second post, I promised to make this recipe. Well, I stuck to my word…maybe it took a little longer than I expected it to, but I got there in the end.
To be honest, before now it just didn’t seem appropriate to post this recipe. The best use for the simple syrup is a simple cold beverage, which is best enjoyed in the garden on a gloriously hot day. We are now in the middle of a heat wave, well some parts of the UK are anyway, and now this recipe is perfect! (well that is some amount of nonsense to justify my procrastination)
It’s basically like making homemade fancy fruit cordial. I’m going to have to think up some other flavours to try out, I’m thinking blueberry and lime or something like that!
The flavour of this syrup is very suble but deliciously fragrant and sweet. With lots of ice and sparkling water it turns into a wonderfully refreshing drink for a summers afternoon.
If you happen to enjoy the orange and lavender combination but actually want to eat something, rather than drink something, check out this crumble recipe.
Boil up all the ingredients in a pan.
Then strain. Simple!
Orange and Lavender Simple Syrup
makes 1 ½ cup2
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
3tbsp dried edible lavender
Add all of the ingredients to a saucepan and bring to the boil, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat slightly and continue to boil gently until the sugar has dissolved completely.
Remove from the heat and allow to steep for 30 minutes.
Strain the mixture to remove the lavender buds.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one month.
To make into a drink:
Add ice to a tall glass.
Pour in about 3 tablespoons of syrup.
Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice, about ¼ of an orange.
Fill glass with sparkling water.
Add a slice or orange if you’re feeling fancy.
Enjoy!