Lavender is perhaps the scent most closely associated with Provence. In summer, the fields turn purple and the air fills with a soft, aromatic fragrance.

But lavender isn't just beautiful to look at. In Provence, the herb is also used in cooking, for example to make lavender syrup.

It's a simple recipe with a surprising result. While you're cooking, the scent of lavender fills the whole house, giving you a taste of Provençal summer.

What do you use lavender syrup for?

Lavender syrup is versatile and can be used in various ways:

• in tea for a mild floral flavor
• as a base for lemonade or a summer drink
• about desserts or ice cream
• in cocktails or aperitifs

A small amount is enough to give a dish or drink a subtle Provençal aroma.

Recipe: lavender syrup

Ingredients (approximately 200 ml)

• 1 cup sugar (approximately 50 g)
• 2 cups of water (approximately 150 ml)
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh lavender flowers

Preparation

1. Put the water and sugar in a small saucepan.
2. Add the lavender flowers.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil briefly until the sugar has completely dissolved.
4. Remove the pan from the heat.
5. Let the syrup steep for about an hour so that the lavender can release its aroma.
6. Strain the mixture and pour the syrup into a clean bottle.

The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.

A piece of Provence in a glass

Lavender syrup may be a small recipe, but it instantly brings the atmosphere of Provence to your kitchen.

The scent of lavender, the soft floral flavor, and the idea of long summer days make this simple drink a little moment of vacation.

At Domaine des Campeaux, lavender is everywhere: in the nature surrounding the estate, in the fields of the region, and sometimes even in the kitchen.