New to the world of mixing your own drinks? Want to impress your dinner party without a lot of fuss or hassle? With a little money and a little forethought, you can enjoy a fresh-flavored summer drink–the easy way!
Vodka infusions are simple: Add fresh, natural ingredients to a bottle of vodka, and within a day or two, you have a colorful and scrumptious elixir to add to your favorite mixed drink or enjoy over a little ice all on its own.
To make a vodka infusion, first choose your ingredient(s). Inexpensive vodka works very well for vodka infusions, so finding a low- or middle-qulity vodka will save you some money. Next, choose your flavors. Fresh strawberries impart a light flavor and vibrant color; whole vanilla beans leave you with intense aroma, distinct flavor, and a creamy appearance. Citrus fruits will give you a light tanginess and peach slices may remind you of grandma’s famous peach pie. For a more unique potion, try szechwan peppercorn–it will leave your mouth tingling with subtle spice. Kick your party up a notch with a jalapeno infusion, or get creative and combine flavors to make your own unique vodka blends.
After adding your chosen ingredient(s), re-cap the bottle and place it out of the way for a day or two. You can taste-test as time passes in order to know when the vodka has achieved the strength you desire. Keep an eye on the color as well; let it infuse for an extra day or so for a brighter hue. Once you’ve strained the vodka and replaced it in its original bottle, you’re ready to mix drinks and entertain!
For a simple vodka drink, combine two ounces of infused vodka with a cup or so of ice in a drink shaker. Shake it up for thirty seconds or until quite chilled, and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with the leftover ingredients from your infusion–a vodka-infused strawberry floating atop a chilly strawberry-infused vodka is the perfect summer treat.
Take your bartending skills to the next level by creating your own vodka-infused drink recipes. Try combining strawberry-infused vodka with a shot of vanilla-infused vodka and a splash of cream. Create a tropical paradise for your mouth with pineapple- and mango-infused vodka and a little coconut milk. The possibilities for fruity drinks are endless, but you can also infuse vodka with spices, flowers, or vegetables to pair with your dinner menu: jalapeno with tacos, rose with a light almond pastry for dessert, or cucumber to cleanse the palate between courses.
Once you learn how easy and economical vodka infusions are–and how impressed your guests will be at your drink creations!–you may never serve another ready-to-pour, bottled mixed drink again!
Happy mixing!
