What is Nocino?
Nocino is a walnut liqueur that originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Made from green walnuts, it has a rich, nutty flavor that is perfect for sipping after a meal or adding a unique twist to your cocktails.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs green walnuts
- 1 liter vodka
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- Zest of 1 organic lemon
Step 1: Harvesting Green Walnuts
The first step in making Nocino is to gather the green walnuts. Green walnuts are unripe walnuts that are still soft and easily pierced with a knife. Harvest them in late June or early July, before the shells harden.
Step 2: Preparing the Walnuts
Once you have the green walnuts, wash them thoroughly and cut them into quarters. Place the walnut quarters in a large, airtight glass jar.
Step 3: Adding the Flavorings
Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon zest to the jar with the walnuts. These ingredients will infuse the liqueur with their aromas and flavors.
Step 4: Pouring in the Vodka
Pour the vodka into the jar with the walnuts and flavorings. Ensure that the walnuts are completely covered by the vodka. Seal the jar tightly.
Step 5: Infusing the Liqueur
Place the jar in a cool, dark place and let it infuse for at least 40 days. Remember to shake the jar gently every few days to help the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Straining and Bottling
After 40 days, it’s time to strain and bottle your Nocino. Use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to filter out the walnut pieces and other solids. Pour the liqueur into clean, sterilized glass bottles.
Step 7: Aging and Enjoying
Your homemade Nocino will continue to develop its flavors as it ages. Ideally, it should rest for at least another 6 months before being consumed. Store the bottles in a cool, dark place and be patient!
Congratulations! You’ve learned how to make traditional Modenese Nocino from scratch. With its unique flavors and smooth finish, this homemade liqueur is sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try and add a touch of Italian flair to your next gathering?