Just saying the word Lemon evokes so many senses. Lemonade on a hot summer day. A squeeze of lemon to brighten up a delectable dinner dish, or an aroma of lemon blossoms filling the air. Lemons are magic.
Limoncello is an Italian liqueur made typically in Southern Italy in regions south of Naples in Amalfi and Sorrento. It is one of Italy’s top liqueurs which is usually served after dinner.
It is easy to make, and you don’t need lemons from Italy. Grab them from your farmers market or your favorite store. Let’s get started!
These lemons are fresh from John’s sister and our brother-in-law’s house. Living in Arizona, we are so blessed to have a bounty of fresh lemons during the winter and spring months. This batch is going to make a fantastic limoncello.
It’s important to make sure to peel the lemons so you only get the yellow peel. The white pith is strong and bitter.
*Save the peeled lemons for another recipe. I like to juice them, strain and pour into a bottle that I store in the fridge for another use.
Now the magic of limoncello begins. The peels are steeping in vodka. Yes, you can use 100% grain alcohol, but I prefer vodka. Use what you prefer!
Let the lemons steep for a minimum of four days or up to a month.
Sugar syrup is added, the limoncello will be ready the next day. Trust me, it smells amazing.
Absolute perfection!
Limoncello
Refreshing, sweet and tart drink.
Ingredients
- 10 lemons
- 1 (750) bottle of vodka
- 3 1/2 cups water
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
After the lemons and vodka have been steeping together,
Then make the sugar syrup:
Directions
- Use a vegetable peeler to remove just the yellow part of the lemon. Be careful to not peel into the white part of the lemon. It will add a bitter flavor. Reserve the lemons for another use.
- Place the lemon peels in a pitcher.
- Pour the vodka over the lemon peels and then cover with plastic wrap. Put in a cool place away from bright lights and be patient. Let the lemons and vodka steep for at least 4 days and up to a month. It will smell heavenly.
- In a large saucepan, stir the water and sugar over medium heat. Watch and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Cool completely.
- Pour the sugar syrup over the vodka mixture. Cover and let stand at room temperature overnight.
- Strain the limoncello through a mesh strainer. I suggest using a large mixing bowl with a pour spout so you can easily transfer to your bottle(s). A funnel comes in handy too.
When your patience has ceased to exist, and you can’t stand to wait any longer than it’s time to make the simple sugar.
ENJOY!
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