Reply #4: So simple. The hardest part is waiting for the flavor to distill. [View All]

And not chickening out when the berries lose their color to the spirits.

Leaves only from 2 large sprigs of basil
2 Qt. strawberries (8 cups) washed and trimmed
1-1/2 Cups granulated sugar


Get a wide mouthed jar (glass or ceramic) or canister and layer the basil leaves on the bottom.

Layer the berries over the basil leaves, alternating with sugar until all the fruit and sugar is gone.
Cover it all with

3-1/2+C. good quality vodka

Wrap it with plastic wrap and seal jar or jug with a lid.

Let steep for about 2 months, tilting the jar at least once a week so that the sugar will eventually dissolve. Our hall closet is in a mostly un-airconditioned part of our apartment and it has been a hot summer. I'd estimate about 80 in there because that is the only room where sunlight can be blocked out.

When the time is up (and your strawberries will be gray, but have faith!) line a strainer with a quadruple layer of damp cheesecloth set over a glass or ceramic bowl. Strain the mixture, then draw the corners of the cheesecloth up to make a bag and squeeze until you can't squeeze any more. Toss the pulp and the cheesecloth.

I funneled it into a wine bottle, let it sit over night, then strained it again through coffee filters. Now it's a beautiful red, clear, and smooth on the tongue. Good luck! :hi: