If you’re a fan of zesty liqueurs, making your own Mandarin Limoncello is a rewarding and flavourful project. This citrusy twist on the classic Italian limoncello brings a bright, aromatic blend of lemons and mandarins into the mix, and it's much easier to make than you might think. Below is a simple recipe to craft your own Mandarin Limoncello at home.
Ingredients:
- 3 lemons
- 6 mandarins
- 700 ml neutral spirit at 85% ABV (alcohol by volume)
- Filtered water (to dilute)
- Top Shelf Schnapps Base
Equipment:
- Vegetable peeler or sharp paring knife
- A large, sealable glass jar
- Funnel and filter paper
- Fermentation weights (optional)
- Large jug or mixing bowl
- Measuring tools for alcohol and water
- Bottles for storing the final product
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Citrus Peels
Start by peeling the lemons and mandarins. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp paring knife to carefully remove the outer skin, ensuring you avoid the white pith (the bitter part of the peel). The citrus oils in the skin will be what infuses your spirit with that bright, zesty flavour.
2. Infuse the Spirit
Place the peels into a large glass jar, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Pour 700 ml of neutral spirit with an ABV of 85% over the peels. The high alcohol content will extract the essential oils and flavours from the peels efficiently. Make sure the peels are fully submerged—fermentation weights can help keep them under the surface if needed.
Seal the jar and leave it in a cool, dark place to infuse for five days. This allows the spirit to soak up all the rich citrus oils from the lemon and mandarin peels.
3. Filter the Infused Spirit
After five days, it's time to strain the infusion. Use a funnel and filter paper to separate the peels from the spirit, pouring it into a large jug or bowl. Discard the peels, which will have imparted their flavours into the alcohol.
4. Adjust the Alcohol Content
Now, measure the ABV of your infused spirit. To turn your strong 85% ABV into something more palatable, you’ll need to dilute it with filtered water. A common target ABV for limoncello is around 55%, but you can adjust this based on your personal preference. Slowly add the filtered water, mixing well, and taste as you go. You can dilute further if desired.
5. Sweeten
For those who prefer a sweeter, more rounded finish, add Still Spirits Top Shelf Schnapps Base. This product enhances the mouthfeel and adds a gentle sweetness without overpowering the citrus notes. Stir thoroughly to ensure it’s well incorporated.
6. Bottle and Enjoy!
Once you're happy with the taste and balance of your limoncello, it's time to bottle it. Pour your freshly made Mandarin Limoncello into clean, dry bottles, and seal them tightly. For best results, let the bottles sit for a week to allow the flavours to mellow and harmonise.
Serving Suggestions
Mandarin Limoncello is best enjoyed ice-cold, straight from the freezer. It’s a delightful digestif after a meal or can be used as a vibrant base for cocktails. Try mixing it with soda water for a refreshing spritz or drizzle it over desserts like lemon sorbet for an added citrus kick.
Final Thoughts
Crafting your own Mandarin Limoncello is a fun and rewarding process that results in a delicious, homemade liqueur full of fresh citrus flavours. Whether you enjoy it as a treat for yourself or gift it to friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Cheers to homemade goodness!
