When it comes to Italian liqueurs, few possess the enchanting allure of Limoncello. This vibrant lemon liqueur hails from the sun-kissed coasts of Southern Italy, where the freshest lemons are the stars of the show. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own, using it in cocktails, or drizzling it over desserts, Limoncello always brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your glass.
Limoncello - the Italian Lemon Liqueur
Picture yourself sitting on a patio overlooking the azure seas of the Amalfi Coast, a chilled glass of Limoncello in hand, as the sun begins to set. Ready to recreate this experience at home? Let’s dive into a delightful recipe that will transport you straight to Italy!
### Ingredients
- 10 medium-sized organic lemons
- 1 liter of alcohol (Everclear or vodka)
- 4 cups of water
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
Instructions
- Wash the lemons under cold water to remove any pesticides or wax. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel the lemons, making sure to avoid the white pith as it can impart bitterness to the liqueur.
- Place the lemon peels into a large glass jar and pour in the alcohol. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least 7 days. This allows the lemon flavor to infuse into the alcohol.
- After the infusion period, make the simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow this mixture to cool.
- Once the syrup is at room temperature, strain the lemon-infused alcohol through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher to remove the peels. Discard the peels.
- Mix the cooled syrup with the strained lemon-alcohol mixture, stirring well to combine. Taste your Limoncello; you can adjust the sweetness by adding more syrup if desired.
- Funnel the finished Limoncello into clean, sterilized bottles. Seal tightly and refrigerate. It’s best to let it chill in the fridge for a few weeks, allowing the flavors to meld even further.
- Serve chilled in small glass shots or use it as a refreshing addition to cocktails and desserts.
Now, you’re equipped with the perfect homemade Limoncello recipe to savor at gatherings or simply on a warm evening. Cheers to capturing the vibrant essence of Italy right in your home!
source: aforeignerinitaly.blogspot.com
