Culinary Lavender Sea Salt

Lavender is my fave. I love the aroma and flavor, and try to sneak it into just about everything, both in the kitchen and DIY projects whenever possible. So I’m surprised (and a bit disappointed in myself!) that it never dawned on me to make lavender sea salt. I’m not talking about lavender bath salts (which are also lovely); I’m talking the edible kind that adds that je ne sais quoi when sprinkled on anything from homemade pot de creme to crackers to rimmed grapefruit margarita glasses.

Fellow blogger, Nina Graham of Frippery and Curiosities, opened my eyes to it when she mentioned that my homemade herb cracker recipe was a great way to put her lavender sea salt to good use. Of course, I heard the words lavender and sea salt and knew I needed to get my hands on some!

I used Cypriot Pyramid Sea Salt which is naturally occurring sea salt from Cyprus that forms in the shape of tiny pyramids (!!) and is conveniently available at Trader Joe’s right now (also available online). It’s a bit on the pricier side, so I  filled out the recipe with coarse sea salt which is available in bulk at almost every grocery store.

I went with a more specialty salt because not only did I make some for myself, but I also packed up a jar as a housewarming gift for a friend. This floral seasoning makes a great “foodie” gift or favor, and mini Weck Jars are the perfect container to wrap it up in! The proportions below are what I found was the best ratio, but feel free to experiment if you want less or more lavender flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup Cypriot Pyramid Salt
• 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
• 1 – 1/2 tsp culinary lavender buds

If giving as a gift:

• 760 Mini Mold Weck Jar
• Washi Tape

How-to:

1. Coarsely chop lavender with a sharp knife to release the flavor.
2. Combine pyramid salt, coarse sea salt, and lavender buds in a bowl and stir to combine.
3. Use for garnish or cooking and store in an air tight container.
4. If giving as a gift, fill Weck jar, secure cover and place a 2″ piece of washi tape vertically on the “front” of the jar to act as a packing “seal.”

Recipe can be multiplied for several gift jars.