Infused VODKA DIY Flavouring Techniques

Creating infused vodka at home is a fun and easy way to experiment with flavours and personalize your drinks. The process involves steeping ingredients in vodka until it takes on their flavours.

Here’s a guide to help you master DIY infused vodka:

### Equipment Needed:
– A clean, airtight jar or bottle
– A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
– A funnel (for transferring vodka into containers)

### Choosing Your Vodka:
– Start with a neutral, unflavored vodka. Higher quality vodka generally yields a smoother infusion.
– The proof of the vodka can affect infusion; 80-proof (40% alcohol by volume) is standard and works well.

### Selecting Your Flavoring Ingredients:
Almost anything can be used to flavor vodka, but here are some popular options:
– **Fruits:** Berries, citrus peels, pineapple, apple, pear
– **Herbs and Spices:** Basil, mint, rosemary, cinnamon, vanilla bean
– **Vegetables:** Cucumber, chili peppers
– **Others:** Coffee beans, cocoa nibs, lavender

### Infusion Process:
1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Wash fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Cut larger items into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for a stronger infusion. For spices, crushing them slightly can help release their flavors.

2. **Combine Vodka and Ingredients:** Place your chosen ingredients into the jar or bottle, then pour vodka over them until completely submerged. The amount of flavoring ingredient you use will depend on the strength of flavour desired and the potency of the ingredients themselves.

3. **Seal and Store:** Tightly seal the container. Store it in a cool, dark place. The length of time you should infuse the vodka depends on the ingredients:
– **Fruits and Vegetables:** 3-7 days
– **Herbs and Spices:** 1-2 weeks
– **Harder Ingredients (like vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks):** Up to a month

Taste your infusion every day or so. Once it reaches your desired flavor intensity, it’s time to finish the process.

4. **Strain:** Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all solid particles from the vodka. If necessary, strain multiple times to ensure clarity.

5. **Bottle:** Transfer the strained vodka into a clean bottle. Use a funnel if needed. Seal the bottle and label it with the flavor and date.

6. **Store:** Keep your infused vodka in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. Most infusions keep well for several months.

### Tips for Successful Infusion:
– **Balance Your Flavors:** Start with smaller amounts of flavoring ingredients. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s too strong.
– **Keep It Clean:** Ensure all your equipment and ingredients are clean to avoid introducing any unwanted bacteria into your infusion.
– **Experiment:** Don’t be afraid to try combining different flavors, such as strawberry-basil or cucumber-lime.

### Serving Suggestions:
Infused vodkas can be enjoyed on their own, over ice, or as a base for cocktails. They also make great gifts when bottled attractively.

Infusing vodka at home allows for endless creativity and customization. Have fun experimenting with different flavours and combinations to create your own signature blends!