Homemade citrus-infused vodka recipe

Makes 1 litre

Ingredients:

• zest of one unwaxed lemon and one large orange
• 1 litre good quality vodka, such as Grey Goose
• 3 teaspoons caster sugar or vanilla sugar

Method:

Sterilise a funnel and two 500ml preserving bottles (or a one litre preserving bottle).

Using a speed peeler, zester or paring knife, peel the orange and lemon skins, taking care not to include the white pith. Slice the peel into very thin strips. Put the orange and lemon peel into the bottles, pour over the vodka and add the sugar.

Shake together well and leave the vodka to infuse for 3-4 days, or longer if you prefer.

Before serving, strain out the used peel and chill the vodka and your shot glasses in the freezer. Pour into shot glasses and garnish each shot with fresh, thinly sliced citrus peel.

For a longer drink, mix a measure of citrus vodka with lemonade or cola and plenty of ice.

Pomegranate and Vanilla Vodka

This makes enough for 3 x 250ml  bottles or a large 1 litre preserving bottle

Ingredients

• 120g or 2/3 cup fresh pomegranate seeds (roughly the amount from one large pomegranate or a packet)
• 3 Fairtrade vanilla pods (I used Ndalli pods)
• 75cl bottle vodka (40%ABV)
• 220g or one cup sugar
• 240ml or one cup water

Method

1. Sterilize your bottles and funnel, if using (see above for How to Sterilize tips)
2. Put the pomegranate seeds and vanilla pods into sterilized bottles or one large litre Kilner jar. Carefully pour in the vodka.
3. Put the sugar and water in a pan, boil for a few minutes until the sugar dissolves. Leave to cool slightly.
4. Pour the cooled sugar syrup into the vodka and shake well. Store in a cool, dark place and shake every few days.
5. Before drinking or giving as a gift, strain the vodka into a newly sterilized bottle or container, removing the pomegranate seeds.
6. Pour the strained vodka into three smaller sterilized bottles, adding a pod to each one and a few fresh pomegranate seeds.

After just a couple of days, the vodka has turned a beautiful translucent peachy colour. When you shake it, you see pretty specks of vanilla.