Mint Liqueur Recipe
Category: Beverages
Servings: 1 bottle
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Mint Leaves | 125g |
| Pure Alcohol | 500g |
| Water | 500g |
| Sugar | 300g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mint: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the fresh mint leaves. It’s crucial to ensure they are completely dry to avoid any unwanted moisture that could affect the infusion process.
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Infuse the Mint: Once the mint is ready, place the leaves into a clean jar. Add the pure alcohol, which will help preserve the mint and prevent oxidation. Seal the jar tightly, ensuring there’s no air inside, and store it in the freezer for 24 hours. This cold infusion process is key to extracting the maximum flavor and vibrant color from the mint.
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Prepare the Syrup: After the infusion period, take the jar out of the freezer and remove the mint leaves. You should now have a beautifully aromatic mint extract. Set the liquid aside in a separate container.
In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved completely. Once dissolved, remove from the heat.
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Cool the Syrup: Pour the hot syrup into a jug or pitcher and allow it to cool completely to room temperature. This ensures that the syrup does not interfere with the delicate balance of flavors in the mint extract.
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Combine the Mint Extract and Syrup: Once the syrup has cooled, pour it into the jar containing the mint extract. Stir gently to combine, making sure the alcohol and syrup mix thoroughly.
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Bottle the Liqueur: Transfer the finished mint liqueur into a clean, airtight bottle. Seal it tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. Let the liqueur rest for at least 30 days to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more robust the flavor will become.
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Enjoy: After the resting period, your homemade mint liqueur is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it chilled, either neat or as a delightful addition to cocktails. This refreshing, minty beverage is perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure your mint leaves are fresh and of high quality for the best flavor.
- The cold infusion process helps preserve the mint’s delicate flavors and enhances the final color.
- Don’t rush the resting period. Giving the liqueur 30 days to rest allows the flavors to develop and settle into a smoother, more balanced taste.
This homemade mint liqueur is a refreshing and aromatic addition to your collection of homemade spirits, perfect for sipping after meals or as a key ingredient in cocktails. Cheers to your minty masterpiece!
