To begin, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. The star of the show, of course, is the green walnuts. It’s important to note that these walnuts be harvested while they are still immature, typically around late June to early July. Additionally, you will need a high-proof spirit, such as vodka or grain alcohol, to extract the flavors from the walnuts. Other ingredients include sugar, spices like cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla, and a few strips of lemon zest to add a subtle citrus element. Once you have everything you need, you’re ready to get started!
First, prepare the walnuts by washing and drying them thoroughly. Then, carefully cut each walnut into quarters, taking care not to stain your hands with the juice that may be released. Next, place the quartered walnuts into a large glass jar or airtight container, ensuring that they are tightly packed.
Now, it’s time to add the spices. Drop a couple of cloves, a small piece of cinnamon, and a half a vanilla bean into the jar. You can also experiment with other spices like star anise or cardamom for a unique twist. Finally, add the strips of lemon zest. These will impart a refreshing note to your nocino, so be sure to use organic lemons to avoid any unpleasant pesticides or wax.
With the walnuts and spices in place, it’s time to add the alcohol. Pour the high-proof spirit over the ingredients, making sure they are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for approximately 40 days. During this time, the flavors of the walnuts and spices will infuse into the alcohol, creating the distinctive taste of nocino.
After the waiting period has passed, it’s time to move on to the final step – sweetening the nocino. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Gently heat the mixture, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool before adding it to the jar of infused alcohol. Give the contents a gentle stir to ensure the sugar syrup is evenly distributed.
Lastly, strain the nocino through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids. Transfer the liqueur into clean glass bottles or jars and store them in a cool place for at least a few months, allowing the flavors to further develop and mellow. Though it may be tempting to have a taste immediately, the longer the nocino ages, the smoother and more harmonized the flavors will become.
Now that you know how to prepare your own delicious nocino, it’s time to gather the ingredients and embark on this delightful culinary journey. Enjoy sipping your nocino as an after-dinner treat or use it to add an enticing twist to cocktails and desserts. Cheers to your newfound expertise in the art of nocino-making!