Limoncello....

A couple of months ago, we moved house. When I was unpacking, I found a small bottle of Limoncello which I had made about 15 years ago for Christmas gifts. It was in its perfect pretty little bottle, tag still attached (I'd obviously either run out of friends to give it to, or made too much). Anyway, my hubby and I looked at each other and decided to give it a try - it was only alcohol right? could either be really seriously bad, or really seriously good.....

It was really seriously good. Smooth. Sweet. Lemony. Delicious.  

And there was only a tiny glass for each of us.

At work the other day, one of my friends said "my lemon tree is full - do you want lemons?"

Yes, yes, yes.... at least 15 please pretty please....


Here's the recipe - I've just made another batch today, its quietly doing its thing in the cupboard - should be ready for Christmas 

Lemony Limoncello

What you'll need to start with:

• 2 x 750ml bottle of vodka (get the highest proof you can get, at the best price)
• 15 lemons
• large jar with screw on lid

Wash those lemons and give them a bit of a scrub - if they came from the supermarket, you want to get the wax and pesticides off them - if they are off a local tree or from a local market, give them a good scrub.

Zest them - you don't want the pith (white part).

Put the zest in the bottom of the jar, pour in the vodka over the top. You will not need to shake or stir. Put on the lid and store in a cool, dark spot for at least 40 days - the longer the better as the lemon will infuse with the vodka.  Just put it away and forget about it - do not throw out the empty vodka bottles, you will need them later (or drink more vodka in the meantime - just keep in mind you will need bottles later down the track).

 Fast forward 2 months...

There is no way to fast track this one - you just need to be patient.

Next step is to make a syrup:

• 4 cups sugar
• 5 cups water

Place sugar and water into a saucepan - gently boil for 5-7 minutes. Allow to cool and add to your lemon and vodka mixture (you may need a second jar at this stage). Put it all back into that cool dark place and forget about it for the next 2 months.

This is the hardest thing to do - wait... the temptation is so strong, but you really need to wait - don't rush it or you will be disappointed with the result - remember, our missing bottle was drunk after 15 years and it was delicious!

 Fast forward another 2 months...drinking time!

You've been patient and waited... now is the taste testing time. Sample your limoncello - is it ready? 

Now you simply need to strain your mixture - use cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Pour liquid back into those empty vodka bottles and store - you may even need a third bottle.

Delicious on its own, over ice, or keep it in the freezer.  Yummy.