Summer always seems to be too short, doesn’t it? While there’s no way to add more days to your calendar, you can help the relaxed feeling of this season linger just a bit longer; savor the flavors of fine weather for days to come by infusing seasonal herbs and produce into your bourbon, gin, or vodka. Don’t worry, it’s easier — and far less fancy — than it sounds. In fact, you don’t even need a proper recipe; here’s how:
Select your fruits, vegetables, herbs, or spices. Just keep in mind that you’ll be transferring the tasting notes from their original sources, so you may want to select items that are naturally more flavorful or plan to use more of those that are not (i.e. you could use one jalapeno, or need several cucumber slices). The key here will be to taste as you go!
Thoroughly wash and dry any add-ins you’d like, then pit, slice, or cut into same-size chunks. Next, fill a jar or similar vessel with alcohol (we recommend starting with one or two cups, depending on your intended use), and submerge your prepped inclusions. Cover, place in the refrigerator, and let time do the work for you — really, it’s that simple — tasting for desired doneness as you go. Your mixture should sit at least overnight, and up to a whole month.
Keep an eye on your mixtures; you’ll want to remove the ingredients before they get a chance to break down. Sip straight up, as is, or mix your new infusions into your favorite cocktail.
