Homemade Limoncello

To successfully tackle this task and obtain a high-quality beverage from the outset, it's crucial to take the preparation of the raw materials seriously. We are discussing the quality of lemons since they are the foundation of this recipe. Choose fresh lemons that are not withered and are undoubtedly aromatic, as the taste of the final drink depends on this. Before you begin, thoroughly wash the selected lemons. Considering that citrus fruits are often covered in wax for long-term preservation, it's necessary to wash them with hot water. To do this, immerse the fruits in a colander, pour hot water over them, and let them sit for a few minutes. Then, dry them thoroughly with a dense, rough cloth.

Now, another important step is the peeling process. You need to remove the zest from the lemons correctly, which means using only the yellow part because the white part can impart a strong bitterness. The easiest way to do this is with a vegetable peeler, but a sharp knife will also work. By the way, you can use the lemon pulp to make homemade lemonade.

So, place the removed lemon zest in a glass jar, filling it halfway, and pour in the alcohol. Close the jar tightly with a lid, give it a gentle shake, and store it in a dark, cool place to infuse for 60 days. To avoid forgetting the dates, it's best to write the date on the jar. The longer the zest infuses in the alcohol, the brighter the color and more intense the lemon flavor will be. To ensure that the lemon zest releases its essential oils completely, shake the jar with its contents every day to mix it thoroughly.

When the alcohol turns yellow, and the lemon zest fades slightly, it's time to prepare the syrup. To do this, place a saucepan with water on the stove, heat it, and add the sugar. Dissolve the sugar in the water and let it cool.

Afterward, strain the prepared lemon infusion into the syrup, mix it, and pour it into a glass bottle. Limoncello should be chilled before serving, and when serving, pour it into tall glasses. You can add ice cubes and garnish with a sprig of mint if desired.