Homemade Pompelmocello

Made with pomelo, this is a variation on limoncello, a popular Italian lemon liqueur. Use as an after-dinner digestive or as an ingredient in craft cocktails and desserts. Pompelmocello also makes a great hostess gift. If you want to give this as a gift, be sure to plan ahead, as the liqueur needs to infuse for 4-6 weeks. Photo by Justin Snavely.

Makes 1-1/2 quarts

Ingredients

For infusion

1 (5-pound) bag pomelo

1 (1.75 liter) bottle vodka 80 proof

For simple syrup

4 cups sugar

4 cups water

Instructions

To make infusion: Cut pomelo in half and juice each half (save juice for drinking or other recipes). Scrape white inner pith from peel. Cut peel into strips. Divide strips between 2 (64-ounce) mason jars. Fill jars with vodka, making sure peels are fully covered. Store in cool location for 4-6 weeks. When ready, strain liquid from jars using colander or mesh strainer. Squeeze remaining liquid from peel, then strain through cheesecloth to remove any solids.

To make simple syrup: Combine sugar and water in large saucepan. Heat over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Cool, then blend with pomelo infusion to taste. Decant pompelmocello into flip top bottles. Store in refrigerator.