Lavender in Winter

Winter has arrived.  In anticipation, we moved plants, cleaned beds and said goodbye to the plants that will die back until next Spring.  One thing I typically fail to do is prepare my pantry.  It's cold and I get in the mood for hot things to drink.  Tonight I am reminded of a rich chocolate and lavender drink recipe I found on line several years ago.  Yes, Lavender in the winter.  

Culinary Lavender can be enjoyed year round. You can add a bit of Lavender to scalloped potato's, a rice pilaf or in this rich hot chocolate Latte.  Make this winter and holiday time special with a new twist on a hot chocolate drink.

You can purchase your Culinary Lavender from us here. :) Enjoy.

Lavender Mocha Latte

¾ cup low-fat milk

1 tbsp. dried lavender or 3 tbsp. fresh lavender flowers

2/3 cup bittersweet  chocolate chips

2 tbsp. of instant espresso or instant coffee

1 tsp. of vanilla extract

sweetener to taste

Fresh whipped cream and cocoa powder for garnish.

In saucepan stir together milk and lavender. Cook over medium heat just until milk begins to bubble. Remove pan from heat, stir, cover and steep lavender in the milk for 10 minutes. Strain lavender from milk and discard; return milk to sauce pan. Add chocolate chips, espresso, vanilla and stir.Cook mixture over low heat until chocolate is completely melted. Sweeten to taste and pour into four mugs. Top with whipped cream and cocoa powder.