Put the lemon peels (no white pith) in a large glass jar or bottle and soak them the pure grain alcohol. Yes, the very potent stuff. DON’T use vodka. Using vodka imparts an off taste. Use only the pure stuff.
The lemon peel must sit in the alcohol for at least 6-8 weeks. Longer is no problem if you forget it in the back of the pantry. Trust us, the wait is so worth it.
When the alcohol infusion is ready, combine the sugar into the water in a small pan. Heat the mixture over medium heat until sugar is completely dissolved. At the point at which the syrup starts to simmer around the edges of the pan, the liquid should be completely clear, not cloudy. Immediately remove the pan from the heat, and allow the syrup to cool.
Simple syrup is great to have on hand; so if you have too much, store it in an airtight container, in the fridge, until ready to use. Basic simple syrup can stay fresh up to 4 weeks if properly stored.
Drain the infused alcohol into a lovely bottle, and discard the lemon peel (or save it for roasting inside a chicken…yum!!)
Combine the infused alcohol with the simple syrup…the usual proportion is 1:1, but adjust it to your taste. The proportions are up to you. Like it sweeter, add more simple syrup or a more concentrated simple syrup; prefer it a bit more tangy? Let the lemon peel soak for a little longer. Keep it in a cool dark place until the perfect moment to enjoy a glass.
Then chill and enjoy. Try serving it ice cold in beautiful tasting glasses at the end of a perfect meal. Or, serve it with a little sparkling wine mixed half and half for a very refreshing aperitif.
Sunshine in a glass.
Ciao
© 2019 Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company
