Green Apple, Ginger and Yuzu Vodka Recipe

Green apples are naturally more acidic than other varieties, with a crisp, sharp taste. Combined with the aromatic and warm qualities of ginger and the floral fragrance of yuzu, the tang of the apple gives a spark to this infusion of flavours.

Makes: 700 ml (23 1/2 fl oz)
Takes: 10 minutes, plus 4-5 days to infuse

Ingredients:

2 green apples, thinly sliced
2 1/2 cm (1 in) piece ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
700 ml (23 1/2 fl oz) unflavoured vodka
1 tablespoon yuzu juice

Method:

Put the sliced apple and ginger in a sterilised 1 litre (34 fl oz) glass jar or bottle and pour over the vodka. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 3 days, gently shaking the jar occasionally to help infuse the flavours.
After 3 days, add the yuzu juice and leave to continue infusing. After 1-2 days, strain the vodka through a fine-mesh sieve into a large jug, and discard the apple and ginger. Strain again through a fine-mesh sieve lined with a muslin (cheesecloth) or a coffee filter. Transfer to one large or several smaller sterilised glass bottles and seal tightly.

Cocktail Tips:

To make The Apple Blossom, serve a single measure (25 ml/ 3/4 fl oz) infused vodka with 1-2 teaspoons Simple Syrup, garnished with fresh apple slices and apple blossom flowers.

For an Apple Sparkle, combine 350 ml (12 fl oz) Green Apple, Ginger and Yuzu Vodka with iced sparkling water, fresh apple slices and mint sprigs in a jug.

Also from Infused Booze:

In Infused Booze, Kathy Kordalis teaches you how to enhance your cocktails and brighten up any home bar. It’s so simple to infuse your own spirits – all that’s required is a glass bottle, your spirit of choice and a little imagination and time. Savour the decadent Cherry Gin, or take summer refreshments to the next level with Lime and Lemongrass Gin. Make your own Liquorice Whiskey for the perfect digestif or spice up your parties with Jalapeño Vodka. Most infusions take just 10 minutes to prepare and are ready to drink in just three days. Best of all, Kathy has included a bespoke cocktail for each recipe, to make sure you get the most out of your flavoured booze. With a flavoured beverage to suit any occasion, Infused Booze is full of ideas to boost your spirits.

Recipes excerpted with permission from Infused Booze: Over 60 Batched Spirits and Liqueurs to Make at Home by Kathy Kordalis, published by Hardie Grant Books, May 2018, RRP $16.99 hardcover.