Lemoncello (or Limoncello) is a popular Italian lemon liqueur, typically enjoyed as an after-dinner digestif.
It’s made by steeping lemon zest in alcohol and then mixing it with a simple syrup. Here’s a classic recipe to make your own Lemoncello at home:
Classic Lemoncello Recipe
Ingredients:
- 10 organic lemons (preferably unwaxed)
- 1 liter (33.8 fl oz) of high-proof alcohol (e.g., vodka or Everclear, at least 80-95% ABV)
- 700 grams (3.5 cups) of granulated sugar
- 1 liter (33.8 fl oz) of water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Lemons:
- Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax. Use a vegetable brush if needed.
- Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, carefully peel the lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith as much as possible. Only the yellow zest is needed.
- Steep the Lemon Zest:
- Place the lemon zest in a large glass jar or airtight container.
- Pour the alcohol over the zest, ensuring it is fully submerged.
- Seal the container tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 7-10 days. Shake the jar gently once a day to help release the lemon oils.
- Make the Simple Syrup:
- After the steeping period, prepare the simple syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- Combine and Strain:
- Strain the lemon-infused alcohol through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the zest. Discard the zest.
- Mix the infused alcohol with the cooled simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
- Bottle and Age:
- Transfer the Lemoncello into clean, sterilized bottles. Seal tightly.
- Let the Lemoncello rest in the freezer or a cool, dark place for at least 1-2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Lemoncello is best served chilled, straight from the freezer. Enjoy it in small glasses as a digestif or use it in cocktails.
Tips:
- Use organic lemons to avoid pesticides or wax coatings.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the syrup.
- For a smoother texture, you can filter the Lemoncello through a coffee filter before bottling.
Variations:
- Orangecello: Replace lemons with oranges for a sweeter, citrusy liqueur.
- Limecello: Use limes instead of lemons for a tangier twist.
- Herb-Infused Lemoncello: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint during the steeping process for a unique flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Lemoncello! 🍋
