Name: Limoncello
Total time: PLACEHOLDER
Ingredients: 40 (3-inch) strips lemon zest (4 large lemons); 10 ounces vodka; 1½ cups sugar; 18 ounces water

Why This Recipe Works

Making limoncello is a simple process in which strips of lemon zest are steeped in a neutral spirit to extract flavors and aromas from the zest. Traditionally this takes a month or longer, but we wanted speedier gratification—without compromising flavor—so we turned to the blender. Because alcohol is so efficient at extracting soluble compounds from flavoring agents, we found that processing the zest with vodka in the blender served both to extract these flavor compounds mechanically and to create more surface area on which the alcohol could act to extract flavors more quickly. After just one week, our processed zest yielded as much flavor as strips that had been steeped for a month.

Before You Begin

Over time, a fine sediment (of innocuous pith residue) may form on the surface of the liqueur; if you like, repeat straining through cheesecloth (or simply shake it). You will need a quart-size glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for this recipe.

Instructions

Process lemon zest and vodka in blender until finely ground, about 30 seconds. Transfer mixture to quart-size glass jar. Cover and store in cool, dark place for 1 week, shaking mixture once every other day.

Set fine-mesh strainer in medium bowl and line with triple layer of cheesecloth. Strain vodka mixture through prepared strainer, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible; discard solids. Return infused vodka to clean jar.

Heat sugar and water in small saucepan over medium heat, whisking often, until sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes; do not boil. Let cool completely, about 30 minutes; add to jar with vodka mixture. Cover and gently shake to combine. Refrigerate to chill before serving. (Limoncello can be refrigerated for up to 1 year. Shake gently before using.)