I love making cocktails with infused liquors, but when I’m needing that happy hour drink NOW and not 24-48 hours after my liquor has infused, I have to get a bit creative on drawing out the same flavor profiles in a short amount of time. On one such occasion I whipped up a batch of jalapeno cilantro infused vodka in just an hour for this deliciously refreshing (and STRONG) cocktail. See how I did it and add this recipe to your list of new favorite drinks for the summer!
…..
(makes 4 cocktails)
Ingredients:
Half of a jalapeno, cut into slices
10-15 fresh cilantro leaves, torn
1 1/2 to 2 cups of vodka
Juice from 1 lime
Ice
Ginger beer
Jalapeno slices, cilantro leaves, and/or lime slices for garnish
Add jalapeno slices and cilantro leaves to a canning jar or other sealing container. Using a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon, muddle the pepper slices and cilantro leaves. The more you muddle, the more the flavors come out. Pour in the vodka, seal, and set it aside. I usually let mine infuse for about an hour, shaking the jar to mix everything at the half hour mark. The longer it sits the spicier and more intense the flavor will be, but once again, when you need that drink like yesterday.. an hour is long enough!
Strain your infused vodka into a cocktail shaker and add the lime juice. Give it a few good shakes and then pour into ice filled glasses. Top with ginger beer, garnish, and serve!
Enjoy responsibly!
Amber says
Yummy! Sounds so good!