Perhaps the most fragrant of all herbs is lavender (Lavendula species). The word lavender is derived from the Latin word for wash, so it isn’t surprising that this herb is associated with bathing and a fresh clean scent. What is surprising is how well the rich flavour of chocolate blends with the clean scent of lavender. Try these Chocolate Brownies and you will be pleasantly surprised.
Did you know Lavender is a member of the mint family.
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate (2 squares)
¼ cup butter
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
½ cup flour
Dash of salt
½ cup hazelnuts, chopped
1 tbsp dried lavender or two to three tbsp. fresh lavender, minced
Lavender flowers for decoration
Melt the chocolate and butter together, and cool. Mix the remaining ingredients, except the nuts, and whisk in the chocolate mixture. Blend smoothly, then add the hazelnuts. Put the mixture in an 8 x 9 inch square baking pan, and bake at 325 F for 18 minutes. Dust with icing sugar when removed from the oven. Cool. Sprinkle with lavender petals. Makes 16 squares.
