by Kenny Lyons » Fri Jul 18, 2008 8:58 am
A Limoncello recipe of Biblical proportions.
Every little corner wine store Amy and I ran across in Italy had homemade Limoncello which made it very difficult to buy it back in the States. After MUCH experimentation here's my take on homemade Limoncello which follows authentic recipes:
15 of the largest organic lemons you can find. No pesticides make a much more enjoyable experience.
2 - 750ml bottles of Everclear. You can substitute a bottle of 100 proof vodka, but the sugar will alter the taste a bit. Limoncello should have a crisp kick at the end of it. Vodka reduces this. Italians do not use vodka at all.
A really good peeler and the right touch will speed the process up of getting the zest. VERY important: avoid the pith at all cost, it will effect the finished product with a nasty tartness.
Use a large sealable jar (World Market), combine the zest and Everclear, and place the jar in a cool dark place for no less than 40 days. I do agree with C. Devlin, longer does make it better, but 40 days will give you authentic Limoncello. I always have two infusions going at different stages and quite often forget that it's in the closest. 120 days was amazing!
After at least 40 days, mix with a simple syrup to taste and put away for at least another 40 days. Divide into smaller sealable bottles (World Market) or leftover Grolsch beer bottles and keep in a freezer until you are ready to imbibe!