Description
This homemade Rhubarb Liqueur is a delightful and vibrant infusion made by steeping fresh rhubarb stalks in vodka and sugar. After a few weeks of patient infusing and occasional shaking, the result is a flavorful, sweet-tart liqueur perfect for sipping chilled, mixing into cocktails, or adding a unique twist to desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 6 cups rhubarb stalks, chopped (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 1 cup sugar (plus more to taste)
- 750 ml vodka or neutral spirit
Instructions
- Prepare the Rhubarb: Wash the rhubarb stalks thoroughly and chop them into 1-inch pieces to ensure even infusion of flavor into the liqueur.
- Combine Rhubarb and Sugar: Place the chopped rhubarb in a large jar or airtight container and add the sugar. Stir well to coat the rhubarb evenly with the sugar, which will help with maceration and sweetness.
- Add the Alcohol: Pour the vodka or neutral spirit over the sugared rhubarb, then stir again to blend the mixture before sealing the container tightly.
- Steep the Mixture: Store the sealed container in a cool, dark place for 2 to 3 weeks. Shake gently once a day to help dissolve the sugar and mix the flavors thoroughly.
- Strain the Liqueur: After steeping, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate and discard the rhubarb solids, leaving a clear flavorful liqueur.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the strained liqueur and add more sugar if desired, dissolving it fully to achieve your preferred sweetness.
- Bottle and Seal: Transfer the final liqueur into clean bottles, seal them properly to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Store and Age: Store the bottled liqueur in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place. It can be enjoyed immediately or aged for several months for a deeper, more developed flavor profile.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm rhubarb stalks for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sugar quantity based on your sweetness preference; more sugar can be added after straining.
- The liqueur improves with age, so consider letting it mature for several months besides the initial steeping time.
- Always use a clean, airtight container to avoid contamination during the steeping process.
- This liqueur makes an excellent gift or a flavorful cocktail base.
