You can combine vanilla and lavender in cooking and baking. Vanilla is a sweet and creamy flavor, while lavender has a floral and slightly herbal taste. The combination of these two flavors can create a unique and delicious flavor profile in both sweet and savory dishes.
When using vanilla and lavender together, it’s important to use them in moderation as both flavors can be quite strong. A small amount of lavender can add a subtle and fragrant taste to your dish, while too much can make the dish taste soapy or overpowering.
Dishes That Include Vanilla And Lavender
- Baked Goods: Vanilla and lavender can be used together in baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and muffins. For example, you can add a small amount of dried lavender flowers and vanilla extract to sugar cookie dough to create a unique and fragrant cookie.
- Ice Cream and Sorbet: Vanilla and lavender can be combined to make homemade ice cream or sorbet. You can add dried lavender flowers and vanilla extract to a simple ice cream base to create a fragrant and delicious dessert.
- Beverages: Vanilla and lavender can be used in hot or cold beverages such as tea, lattes, or smoothies. For example, you can make a lavender latte by adding a few drops of vanilla extract and a pinch of dried lavender flowers to a cup of steamed milk and espresso.
- Syrups and Sauces: Vanilla and lavender can be added to syrups and sauces to add a unique flavor. You can make a simple lavender syrup by simmering dried lavender flowers, sugar, and water together, then adding vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Roasted Meats and Vegetables: Vanilla and lavender can also be used in savory dishes. You can make a rub or marinade for roasted meats and vegetables by combining dried lavender flowers, vanilla extract, and other herbs and spices.
- Salad Dressings: Vanilla and lavender can be used in salad dressings to add a sweet and floral flavor. For example, you can make a lavender vinaigrette by combining olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, dried lavender flowers, and vanilla extract.
Vanilla And Lavender Compared
Here’s a head to head comparison of vanilla and lavender and what each spice offers.
| Parameter | Vanilla | Lavender |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Sweet, creamy | Floral, slightly herbal |
| Aroma | Sweet, fragrant | Floral, herbaceous |
| Texture | Liquid, viscous | Dried flowers or leaves |
| Color | Brown | Purple-blue |
| Source | Vanilla bean or extract | Dried lavender flowers |
| Nutritional Content | Potassium, magnesium | Calcium, Vitamin A |
| Common Uses | Baked goods, desserts, beverages | Seasoning, herbal tea, aromatherapy |
| Flavor Pairings | Chocolate, coffee, fruit, nuts | Lemon, honey, thyme, rosemary |
Note: The nutritional content may vary depending on the source and quality of the vanilla and lavender. Also, while lavender is often used as a spice, it is important to note that it can have medicinal properties and should be used in moderation.
Final Thoughts
The combination of vanilla and lavender can add a fragrant and unique flavor to many dishes.
Overall, the combination of vanilla and lavender can add a delicious flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. When using these flavors together, it’s important to use them in moderation and to taste as you go to ensure that the flavors are balanced.