What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- 2 cups vodka
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Step 1: Infusing the Vodka
Begin by carefully washing and drying 2 cups of fresh basil leaves. Make sure to remove any dirt or insects from the leaves. Once clean, place the basil leaves into a clean jar or container. Pour 2 cups of vodka over the basil, ensuring that all the leaves are submerged. Seal the container and place it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the vodka to infuse with the basil flavor.
Step 2: Preparing the Simple Syrup
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the simple syrup to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Straining the Basil Liqueur
After the basil and vodka mixture has infused for at least 2 weeks, it’s time to strain out the basil leaves. Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the mixture into a clean bowl or container, discarding the basil leaves. You should be left with a vibrant green basil-infused vodka.
Step 4: Adding Flavor and Sweetness
Now it’s time to add some extra flavor and sweetness to your basil liqueur. Stir in the simple syrup you prepared earlier, along with 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the liqueur.
Step 5: Bottling and Storage
Transfer your homemade basil liqueur into clean, sterilized bottles or jars. Seal the containers tightly to prevent any air from entering. Store the liqueur in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week to allow the flavors to mellow and blend together. After this resting period, your basil liqueur is ready to be enjoyed!
Remember that homemade liqueurs can have a high alcohol content. Enjoy responsibly and always drink in moderation.
There you have it! Your very own homemade basil liqueur. Experiment with different cocktails and recipes to showcase the unique flavors of this delicious herbal liqueur. Cheers!