Description
Ingredients:
1 liter of vodka
10-12 whole star anise pods or 1 1/2 Tablespoons Anise Extract
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of water
Optional: additional flavorings like coffee beans, orange peel, or cinnamon sticks
Directions:
In a large jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, add the star anise pods and any additional flavorings you'd like to include, such as coffee beans, orange peel, or cinnamon sticks.
Pour the vodka over the star anise pods and other flavorings. Close the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake to combine the ingredients.
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking it gently every few days to help the flavors infuse.
After the infusion period, it's time to make the simple syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Once the syrup has cooled, strain the infused vodka through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. Discard the star anise pods and other flavorings.
Add the simple syrup to the infused vodka and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more syrup if desired.
Transfer the homemade sambuca to bottles with tight-fitting lids. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool, dark place for at least another week to allow the flavors to meld.
Your homemade sambuca is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it chilled or at room temperature, either on its own or as a digestif after a meal.
