Photo: Yunhee Kim; Styling: Kelli Ronci
You can make this infusion with almost any combination of citrus fruit and liquor, but this is one of our favorites. Even better: You don’t need the best-quality alcohol; the key is using something that’s smooth and neutral in flavor. Try the infusion over ice or in your favorite cocktails. (Note: It’s illegal to ship spirits in the U.S.)
Remove zest from lemons with a vegetable peeler and save fruit for another use. Put zest in a 1-qt.* glass jar or decorative bottle. Pour in vodka (through a funnel, if the bottle has a narrow opening).
Close jar tightly and put in a cool, dark place for 1 week.
Chill vodka and serve cold; it will take on the color of the zest and will gradually intensify in flavor and get a little cloudy.
*You can use a smaller bottle, but the infusion will be stronger, so taste it occasionally and remove the zest when the liquor tastes the way you want.
Make ahead: Up to 3 months (1 year, strained), chilled.
Bottle it: 34-oz. Giara hermetic bottle, $99; containerstore.com
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.