-7 large
lemons -1,350 kilograms of sugar
-1 liter of high-proof edible alcohol
-3 liters of water
Tools and Utensils:
-Glass
container -Knife
-Wooden
spatula -Large
container -Kitchen
strainer -Stainless steel saucepan
Elaboration:
Step 1: Preparing the Lemons
- Before starting the making of our Limoncello, it is essential to ensure that the lemons are well washed and free of any residue or dirt.
- Use a sharp knife to remove the tips of the lemons, then cut them into thin slices. Remember that we will only use the peel of the lemons, so we must avoid the white part, as it can provide a bitter taste to the liquor.
Step 2: The Maceration
- Once we have prepared the lemon slices, place them in a glass container along with the liter of edible alcohol.
- We cover the container and let it rest in a cool, dark place for at least a week. This maceration stage is crucial for the liqueur to acquire all the aroma and flavor characteristic of lemon.
Step 3: The Sugar Syrup
While we wait for the lemon to macerate in the alcohol, it’s time to prepare the sugar syrup:
- In a stainless steel saucepan, heat the three liters of water and add the sugar.
- Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved, thus obtaining a delicious syrup that will sweeten our Limoncello.
Step 4: The Perfect Match
- Once the week of maceration has passed, it is time to combine the alcohol with the sugar syrup.
- Strain the lemon slices to separate them from the alcohol and then add the syrup to the mixture.
- Stir with a wooden spatula to ensure a homogeneous distribution of the flavors.
Step 5: The Final Rest
- Once we have joined the alcohol and syrup, we transfer our preparation to a large container and let it rest for at least two weeks in a cool and dark place.
- During this time, our Limoncello will finish acquiring its unique flavor and will become an exquisite drink full of freshness and charm.
Step 6: Try it out!
Finally, after two weeks of waiting, our homemade Limoncello will be ready to delight us with its refreshing and nuanced flavor. We serve very cold in small glasses or glasses and toast to the Italian tradition that has given us this wonderful drink.
Now that you know the secrets to making a delicious and refreshing homemade Limoncello, don’t hesitate to share this experience with family and friends. A sip of this bright yellow liqueur transports us to the Italian shores, allowing us to enjoy its sweet charm and providing a unique and enchanting sensory experience.
Tips for preparing it
Here are some helpful tips for making homemade Limoncello:
- Select fresh, good quality lemons: Use fresh lemons, preferably organic, as their skin will be the basis of the Limoncello flavor. Avoid lemons with stains or bumps, and be sure to wash them carefully before using them
- Peel the lemons carefully: When peeling lemons, try to avoid the white part of the peel, as it can add a bitter taste to the liquor. Use a sharp knife and remove only the external, aromatic part of the skin.
- Choose a high-proof alcohol: For a better extraction of the flavor and aroma of the lemon, use high-proof edible alcohol, such as 95% ethyl alcohol or high-quality vodka. This will ensure that the Limoncello has a more intense and authentic flavor.
- Proper maceration: Let the lemon wedges macerate in the alcohol for at least a week. You can let it sit for even two weeks if you want a more pronounced flavor. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure an even extraction of flavors.
- Control the amount of sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar in the syrup according to your preference. If you like Limoncello sweeter, add more sugar, but if you prefer a milder, citrusier flavor, reduce the amount of sugar.
- Be careful with fermentation: During the maceration process, avoid exposing the Limoncello to the sun or excessive heat, as this could lead to unwanted fermentation. Set the container aside in a cool, dark place.
