The Urban Vegan, by Dynise Balcavage has become one of my favorite go-to books ever! She’s very insightful, has great recipes and many DIY tips as well. One such recipe from her book is how to make your own Limoncello. It’s a very refreshing alcoholic beverage great on its own or used as a base for other alcoholic beverages or baked goods. (See my previous post on my own creation of Limoncello Shortbread Squares using my homemade Limoncello).

All you need is a 750mL bottle of organic vodka,
12 organic lemons,
3 cups vegan organic sugar
4 cups water.

Using a vegetable peeler, peel the lemons, trying to avoid getting much of the white pith. Put the rinds in a large glass pitcher or bowl and pour the entire bottle of vodka over them and cover with plastic wrap or a towel. Let sit for 7 days at room temperature. Then strain it, disposing of the peels down the garbage disposal (helps freshen up the scent) or compost. Combine water and sugar in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves and are left with a syrup. Let syrup cool to room temperature, then add to the vodka mixture and stir well. Store in the freezer for a few hours to chill thoroughly, then it’s ready to be used. Can keep refrigerated or in the freezer for up to a couple months.

Tip: freeze the peeled lemons or juice them to make fresh lemonade or after juicing them pour into ice cube trays and freeze for simpler use down the road.