Infusing vodka is really not complicated. Anyone can do it, and the best part is, you can customize the flavors any way you like. To get started, all you need is 750 ml of vodka (commonly referred to as a “fifth”, this equals out to just over 3 cups), your choice of produce, a strainer, and some mason jars. You can use alternative containers is you like, just be sure they have a quality seal to properly preserve your liquor.
The main objective in making your own flavored vodkas is achieving a quality taste that works well in cocktails and on its own. Fortunately, this doesn’t take months of waiting. As it’s the start of the week, you can begin now and have a quality batch ready by this weekend!
Continue reading to learn what you need to know about making infused vodka, how to do it, and where to get the best vodka cocktail specials in Downtown Indianapolis today!
Make Your Very Own Infused Vodka
Liquor Options
It is recommended to use 80 proof vodka. Anything higher than 80 proof will have a stronger burn and bite to it, which is not always preferable for cocktails. However, if you are making your own liqueur, 100 proof vodka is better since it will be balanced with a simple syrup or sugar. If you only have 100 proof vodka, just mix it with a little water to balance it out. You can use any vodka brand you like, just try to aim for a medium shelf product for the best results.
Flavor Options
You can use fruit, vegetables, herbs, and spices to infuse vodka. The possibilities are infinite, and are only limited by your imagination and your personal taste! Virtually all fruits work well, and the riper the better. Berries work very well, but people also love peaches, pears, and even figs. Popular vegetable choices include cucumber, carrot, and even zucchini. The selection of herbs and spices are endless, but common choices include rosemary, thyme, mint, cilantro, dill, chili powder, red pepper, and specialty infused oils.
Single-Fruit Batches are Great for Beginners
If you are just started out, it is a good approach to begin with a single-fruit infused vodka. Not only do fruits have more sugar which makes them infuse quicker, they are generally more predictable in taste, making them a fail-safe first time experiment. Single fruit vodkas also mix and blend better in cocktails because they are not too complex in flavor.
Work Your Way Up to Complex Vodka Infusions
If you are interested in making something more complex, start with a single-fruit batch, taste it, and then build on more flavors by adding more ingredients. You can be as creative as you like! Think about certain cultures or regions, or perhaps certain sensations you would like your vodka to produce. If you like a drink that tingles, consider adding some cayenne. If you want something that makes your lips purse, consider a more citric-flavor. If you like a drink that offer health incentives, perhaps Matcha or Kombucha is your thing!
Here’s a Guide to Making Infused Vodka:
The General Rule of Thumb = 2 Cups of Chopped Fruit to Every 3 Cups of Vodka
➀ Chop your fruit up into medium chunks.
➁ Transfer your fruit into clean, dry mason jars, or your container of choice.
➂ Pour your vodka over the fruit and tightly seal your container. Be sure the fruit is entirely covered with liquor or else it might spoil during the infusing process.
➃ Allow the vodka to sit for 3 to 7 days, depending on how much you want the flavor infused.
➄ Taste-test your concoction after a few days to monitor the progress of the flavor.
➅ Once your vodka has reached your preferred flavor, strain it into a clean, fresh container and seal tightly.
Now you have your own flavored vodka! Your vodka is safe to drink because the liquor prevents mold and bacteria growth during the fermentation process. After you strain it, it stays good for years so long as you seal it and store it properly.
Are you looking for a great vodka cocktail at an even better price? Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious Moscow Mule Monday drink specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! Mondays also showcase Effen and Absolute drink specials!
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