Strawberry

Strawberry Liqueur Recipe: A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

There are moments when you feel the need for a drink that brings a smile to your face and warms your soul. Strawberry liqueur is exactly that drink, a simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for savoring on summer evenings or as a digestif after a hearty meal. This sweet beverage, based on fresh strawberries and alcohol, is not only a delicious way to enjoy seasonal fruits but also a cherished tradition for many. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation Time
- Prep: 30 minutes
- Infusion: 24 hours
- Total: 24 hours and 30 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 10-12 servings

Ingredients
- 2 kg fresh strawberries
- 1 kg sugar
- 600-800 ml 95-degree alcohol (or to taste)

Necessary Utensils
- A glass jar of about 5 liters
- A knife and a cutting board
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A strainer or cheesecloth for filtering
- Glass bottles for storing the strawberry liqueur

Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Liqueur

Step 1: Preparing the Strawberries
First, wash the strawberries thoroughly with cold water. This step is essential to remove any impurities or pesticides. After washing them well, remove the stems. Cut the largest strawberries into quarters, and halve the medium-sized ones. This will help the strawberries release their natural juice more quickly.

Step 2: Layering in the Jar
Take the clean and well-washed glass jar, and start adding the strawberries. Form a layer of strawberries, followed by a generous layer of sugar. Continue alternating layers, ensuring that the last layer is always sugar. This will ensure that all strawberries are evenly covered and that the sugar has time to dissolve.

Step 3: Infusion
After adding all the ingredients, cover the jar with a lid (or a piece of cheesecloth) and leave it in the kitchen. It’s important to stir the strawberries every hour. Don’t worry if they get a bit mashed; the juice they release will help the sugar dissolve more quickly.

Step 4: Adding the Alcohol
In the evening, when the sugar is nearly dissolved, move the jar to a cool place. The next day, when the sugar has completely dissolved, it’s time to add the alcohol. You can choose between 600 and 800 ml, depending on how strong you want the drink to be. Mix everything well and let the strawberry liqueur sit overnight to combine the flavors.

Step 5: Straining and Bottling
After the night has passed, using a strainer or cheesecloth, strain the strawberry liqueur to remove the strawberry pieces. This step is crucial for obtaining a clear and delicious drink. Once strained, pour the strawberry liqueur into clean bottles, adding a few whole strawberries to each bottle for an attractive look.

Practical Tips
- Choose fresh, ripe, and fragrant strawberries for the best results. Frozen strawberries will not have the same texture and flavor.
- The sugar can be adjusted according to your preferences. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
- Instead of 95-degree alcohol, you can use vodka or other spirits, but make sure to choose a quality option.

Nutritional Benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them an excellent ingredient not only for their taste but also for their health benefits. However, the recipe also contains sugar and alcohol, so it’s best to consume strawberry liqueur in moderation.

Variations and Combinations
- Variation with other fruits: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a unique drink.
- Serving: Strawberry liqueur can be enjoyed on its own, but it can also be an excellent ingredient in cocktails. Try mixing it with sparkling water for a refreshing drink!

Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does strawberry liqueur last?
- If stored in a cool place, strawberry liqueur can be consumed for up to 6 months, but its flavor is best in the first 3 months.

- Can I use another type of alcohol?
- Yes, you can use rum, gin, or even flavored liqueurs, but make sure to choose an alcohol that complements the flavors of the strawberries.

Personal Note
Strawberry liqueur is not just a drink; it’s a memory of summer, a way to preserve the taste of fresh strawberries for the cold winter days. So gather your friends and family, prepare this delicacy, and enjoy unforgettable moments together!

I wish you much success in making strawberry liqueur and hope you enjoy every sip of this wonderful drink!