How To Store Lavender

TL;DR

• Harvest lavender just as buds begin to open for optimal flavor and aroma preservation
• Choose from air drying, oven drying, dehydrator, or microwave methods based on your needs and equipment
• Store dried lavender in airtight, light-proof containers in a cool, dark place for up to a year
• Use stored lavender in both sweet and savory dishes, as well as in infusions and syrups
• Monitor stored lavender for signs of mold, discoloration, or loss of fragrance, and rejuvenate scent if needed

Introduction

Lavender, with its delicate purple blooms and intoxicating fragrance, is more than just a pretty face in the garden. This versatile herb has found its way into kitchens worldwide, adding a floral, slightly sweet note to both savory and sweet dishes. From aromatic teas to delectable desserts, lavender’s culinary potential is boundless.

But to harness its full flavor and aroma, proper storage is key. Lavender’s essential oils—the source of its distinctive scent and taste—are volatile. They can easily dissipate if not handled with care. This guide will walk you through the process of harvesting, drying, and storing lavender to ensure you can enjoy its delightful essence year-round.

Harvesting Lavender for Storage

The journey to perfectly stored lavender begins in the garden. Timing is crucial when harvesting lavender for storage. The ideal moment? Just as the buds begin to open, but before they’re in full bloom. This stage captures the peak concentration of essential oils.

Early morning is the best time to harvest, after the dew has evaporated but before the day heats up. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the stems, leaving about 2 inches of green growth on the plant. Gather the stems into loose bundles, securing them with twine or rubber bands.

Remember, gentleness is key. Rough handling can cause the buds to fall off or release their oils prematurely. Treat your lavender like the precious cargo it is, and you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful, fragrant harvest.

Drying Lavender

Air Drying Method

Air drying is the most traditional and gentle method for preserving lavender. It’s simple, requires no special equipment, and helps retain the herb’s natural oils and color.

Here’s how to air dry lavender:

1. Gather your lavender bundles and remove any leaves from the stems.
2. Find a warm, dry, dark space with good air circulation. An attic or unused closet works well.
3. Hang the bundles upside down, spacing them apart to allow air flow.
4. Leave them for 1-2 weeks, checking occasionally for signs of mold.
5. Your lavender is ready when the flowers are crisp and crumble easily.

This slow drying process preserves the lavender’s color and fragrance beautifully, making it perfect for culinary use.

Oven Drying Method

Need to dry your lavender quickly? The oven method is your go-to solution. While it’s faster than air drying, it requires more attention to prevent over-drying or burning.

Follow these steps for oven drying:

1. Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, ideally around 100°F (38°C).
2. Spread lavender stems in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Place the sheet in the oven, leaving the door slightly ajar for air circulation.
4. Check every 10 minutes, rotating the pan for even drying.
5. The process should take 1-2 hours, depending on your oven and the lavender’s moisture content.

Your lavender is ready when it’s crisp to the touch but still retains its color. Be vigilant—overheating can lead to loss of essential oils and flavor.

Dehydrator Method

A food dehydrator offers precise temperature control, making it an excellent option for drying lavender. It’s especially useful if you’re processing large quantities.

Here’s how to use a dehydrator for lavender:

1. Arrange lavender stems in a single layer on dehydrator trays.
2. Set the temperature to 95-115°F (35-46°C).
3. Dry for 2-4 hours, checking periodically for crispness.
4. Rotate trays if your dehydrator doesn’t have a fan.

The low, consistent heat of a dehydrator helps preserve the lavender’s essential oils, resulting in a high-quality product perfect for culinary use.

Microwave Drying Method

For small batches or last-minute needs, the microwave method offers a quick solution. However, use this method sparingly as it can be easy to overdry or scorch the delicate flowers.

To dry lavender in the microwave:

1. Place a single layer of lavender stems between two paper towels.
2. Microwave on high for 1 minute.
3. Check the lavender and continue in 30-second bursts if needed.
4. Allow the lavender to cool completely before handling.

This method is best for small quantities and when time is of the essence. The rapid drying can affect the flavor and aroma, so reserve microwave-dried lavender for less delicate culinary applications.

Storing Dried Lavender

Choosing the Right Container

The right storage container can make all the difference in preserving your lavender’s quality. Opt for airtight containers that block out light and moisture—the two biggest enemies of dried herbs.

Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are ideal. They’re non-reactive and allow you to see the contents without opening the container. If using clear glass, store the jars in a dark place to protect the lavender from light exposure.

For larger quantities, consider food-grade metal tins or ceramic containers with secure lids. Avoid plastic containers, as they can absorb and transfer odors, potentially altering the lavender’s delicate flavor.

Whatever container you choose, make sure it’s completely dry before adding your lavender. Even a small amount of moisture can lead to mold growth, ruining your entire batch.

Ideal Storage Conditions

Creating the perfect environment for your stored lavender will ensure it retains its flavor and aroma for months to come. The key factors to consider are temperature, humidity, and light exposure.

Temperature: Keep your lavender cool, ideally between 50-70°F (10-21°C). Avoid storing near heat sources like ovens or radiators, which can cause the essential oils to evaporate.

Humidity: Low humidity is crucial. High moisture levels can lead to mold growth. If you live in a humid climate, consider adding a food-grade desiccant packet to your storage container.

Light: Store your lavender in a dark place. Exposure to light, especially direct sunlight, can fade the color and degrade the essential oils. A pantry or cupboard away from windows is perfect.

By maintaining these conditions, you’ll create a lavender sanctuary that preserves its culinary potential.

Longevity of Dried Lavender

Properly stored, dried lavender can retain its flavor and aroma for up to a year. However, it’s at its peak quality for the first six months after drying.

To gauge your lavender’s freshness, use your senses:

• Appearance: The color should remain vibrant. Fading indicates age.
• Aroma: Crush a few buds. A strong, sweet scent means it’s still fresh.
• Texture: Fresh dried lavender should be crisp, not soft or damp.

If your lavender shows signs of mold, discoloration, or has lost its scent entirely, it’s time to discard it and start fresh. Remember, the goal is to capture lavender’s essence at its best—don’t settle for subpar herbs in your culinary creations.

Using Stored Lavender

Culinary Applications

Stored lavender opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Its unique flavor profile—floral with hints of mint and rosemary—can elevate both sweet and savory dishes.

In sweet applications, try:

• Infusing sugar for baked goods
• Adding to homemade ice cream or sorbet
• Sprinkling over fresh fruit or yogurt

For savory dishes, consider:

• Blending into herb rubs for roasted meats
• Adding to marinades for grilled vegetables
• Incorporating into homemade bread or focaccia

Remember, a little goes a long way. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste. The goal is to complement, not overpower, your dish’s other flavors.

Infusions and Syrups

Lavender-infused creations allow you to capture the herb’s essence in liquid form, perfect for adding a floral note to drinks and dishes.

Lavender Simple Syrup:

1. Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 3 tablespoons dried lavender in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
4. Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Use this syrup in cocktails, lemonades, or drizzled over desserts.

Lavender-Infused Oil:

1. Gently warm 1 cup of neutral oil (like grapeseed) with 1/4 cup dried lavender.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 2 hours.
3. Strain and store in a dark bottle.

This fragrant oil is perfect for salad dressings or as a finishing touch on grilled foods.

Troubleshooting

Common Storage Issues

Even with the best intentions, storage problems can arise. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

Mold: If you spot any signs of mold, unfortunately, the entire batch must be discarded. Prevent this by ensuring your lavender is completely dry before storage and keeping humidity low.

Discoloration: Fading color often indicates exposure to light or heat. While it may affect appearance, slightly discolored lavender is usually still safe to use if the aroma remains strong.

Loss of fragrance: This typically means the essential oils have evaporated. While not harmful, it does indicate the lavender is past its prime for culinary use. Consider using it for non-food purposes, like sachets or potpourri.

Rejuvenating Lavender Scent

If your stored lavender’s scent has faded but isn’t completely gone, try these tricks to revive it:

1. Gently crush a few buds to release remaining oils.
2. Warm the lavender slightly (in a 100°F oven for 5 minutes) to reactivate the oils.
3. Mix with a drop of lavender essential oil to boost the aroma.

Remember, these methods are temporary fixes. For the best culinary results, it’s often better to start with a fresh batch of properly stored lavender.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of storing lavender unlocks a treasure trove of culinary possibilities. From the moment you snip those fragrant stems to the day you sprinkle the dried buds into your favorite recipe, each step is an opportunity to preserve lavender’s unique charm.

Armed with these techniques, you’re now ready to embark on your own lavender-infused culinary adventures. Let your creativity bloom, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The world of lavender-enhanced cuisine awaits your personal touch.