Lemon verbena and vanilla cordial

Table of contents

Lemon Verbena and Vanilla Cordial

Experience the refreshing and aromatic blend of lemon verbena and vanilla in this delightful cordial. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your beverages, this cordial combines the citrusy notes of lemon verbena with the warm, sweet undertones of vanilla. Whether mixed with sparkling water or used as a cocktail base, this cordial is sure to impress.

Serving Size and Yield

Makes approximately 1 liter of cordial, serving about 20-25 drinks depending on dilution.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Cooling Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup fresh lemon verbena leaves, loosely packed
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups water
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the lemon verbena by rinsing the leaves under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel.
Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add the lemon verbena leaves, vanilla bean, and vanilla seeds to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 1 hour.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle or jar, discarding the solids.
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Seal the bottle and store in the refrigerator.
Serve by diluting with water or sparkling water to taste. Enjoy chilled.

Additional Notes

For a more intense vanilla flavor, add an extra vanilla bean. This cordial can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Try using it as a base for cocktails or drizzling over desserts for a unique twist.