DIY: Bitters
Bitters are aromatic flavoring agents commonly used in cocktails and culinary dishes. This homemade version combines grain alcohol, citrus, and an array of spices to create a complex and balanced blend that enhances both drinks and recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grain alcohol (everclear, 151 rum, or other high proof spirit)
- 1 teaspoon orange peel , minced
- 1 teaspoon cardamom
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon anise seeds
- 4 cups water
- Sweetener (simple syrup, honey, molasses, or any other sweetener you prefer)
Instructions
- ADD all spices to a clean mason jar and cover with the alcohol.
- SEAL the jar and keep it in a cool, dark place for two weeks.
- SHAKE the jar once a day to ensure flavors are diffusing equally.
- STRAIN the alcohol using a cheesecloth into another mason jar, after two weeks.
- SEAL the jar and save the strained alcohol for later.
- MUDDLE the spices from the cheesecloth in a bowl until turned into a slurry or paste.
- PLACE this mixture into a saucepan with the water and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat and let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- POUR the mixture into a mason jar and store in a cool, dark place for 5 days, shaking daily.
- STRAIN through cheesecloth into a jar and discard spices.
- MEASURE out equal parts alcohol mixture and infused water and combine in a mason jar.
- SAVE remaining water to further dilute alcohol mixture if necessary.
- TASTE and add desired sweetness.
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