Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful homemade liqueur to impress your friends or simply to enjoy yourself, plum liqueur is a fantastic choice. This traditional recipe harnesses the natural sweetness and rich flavor of plums, resulting in a smooth and aromatic drink that’s perfect for sipping or as an ingredient in cocktails. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a festive gathering, this plum liqueur will add a special touch to your occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Ripe plums: 1 kg
– Sugar: 500 g
– Vodka (or neutral spirit): 1 liter
– Cinnamon stick: 1
– Cloves: 3-4
– Water: 200 ml
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes, as it involves washing, pitting, and preparing the plums.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is minimal, mainly for dissolving sugar and infusing flavors, totaling about 10 minutes. The total time from preparation to ready-to-drink liqueur can take up to 2-3 months due to the infusion process. This recipe yields about 1.5 liters of plum liqueur, perfect for gifting or personal enjoyment.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Plums
Wash the plums thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. You can choose to leave the skins on for added flavor.
Combine Ingredients
In a large glass jar, combine the prepared plums with sugar. A common ratio is 1 kg of plums to 0.5 kg of sugar, but you can adjust the sweetness according to your preference. Ensure the sugar covers the plums evenly.
Add Alcohol
Pour vodka or another clear spirit over the plums and sugar mixture until the ingredients are fully submerged. A typical choice is vodka at around 40% alcohol by volume. Seal the jar tightly with a lid.
Infuse the Mixture
Place the jar in a cool, dark place. Allow the mixture to infuse for at least six weeks, but for best results, consider letting it sit for three months. Shake the jar gently every week to help dissolve the sugar and mix the ingredients.
Strain the Mixture
After the infusion period is complete, prepare a fine strainer or cheesecloth. Carefully pour the mixture through the strainer to separate the liquid from the plum solids. Press down on the plums to extract as much liquid as possible.
Bottle the Liqueur
Once strained, pour the liqueur into clean, sterilized bottles. Ensure they are sealed tightly to preserve the flavor.
Store and Age
Store the bottled liqueur in a cool, dark place. Although it can be enjoyed immediately, aging it for an additional few months can enhance its flavor profile.
Notes
Proportions
Feel free to adjust the proportions of plums, sugar, and alcohol based on your taste preferences and the quantity you want to make.
Alcohol Choice
While vodka is commonly used, other spirits like brandy or rum can also be substituted for varied flavors.
Flavor Variations
For added complexity, consider adding spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or vanilla beans during the infusion process.
Using Dry Plums
If fresh plums are not available, you can use dried plums (prunes), but adjust the sugar quantity accordingly since dried fruits are typically sweeter.
