Limoncello is a sweet and potent Italian lemon liqueur made with steeping lemon peel in grain alcohol, or vodka, as a substitute.
What is limoncello made of?
Limoncello is a liqueur symbolizing the Amalfi coast in the Gulf of Naples, which has become famous worldwide. Fresh and fragrant, it is made by macerating lemon peels in alcohol. In addition to being served after meals as a “digestive,” it is often used in the preparation of desserts and creams.
What type of alcohol is in limoncello?
vodka
What alcohol is in limoncello? Limoncello is made with a neutral alcohol: vodka, grappa or rectified spirit (highly concentrated ethanol).
How was limoncello originally made?
Traditionally, limoncello is made from the zest of Femminello St. Teresa lemons, also known as Sorrento or Sfusato lemons. Lemon zest, or peels without the pith, is steeped in rectified spirit until the oil is released. The resulting yellow liquid is then mixed with simple syrup.
Is limoncello a wine or liquor?
Limoncello (also known as Limoncino) is a sweet lemon liqueur born, according to tradition, at the end of the nineteenth century, as an alcoholic beverage made by expertly blending lemons, sugar, and alcohol.
Can limoncello get you drunk?
Limoncello has an alcohol content of 25-30% ABV, which is more than strong enough to get you drunk.
Is limoncello good for health?
Lemon oil is a carminative, which is why limoncello is categorized as a digestif liqueur—it aids in digestion, especially after diving into a big meal (see more on this below). Because lemon is a citrus fruit, it’s packed with Vitamin C.
How long does homemade limoncello last?
After your Limoncello is done. Store in airtight bottles in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Do you drink limoncello before or after dinner?
In Italy, limoncello is often enjoyed as an aperitif (before a meal) or a digestif (after a meal). Regardless, limoncello is often served chilled (but not over ice) to exalt its flavors. It’s usually served in a shot glass or a small ceramic cup because of its high alcohol content.
Does limoncello need to be refrigerated?
Limoncello does not require refrigeration for long-term storage. However, as is the tradition along the Amalfi Coast, we highly recommend chilling Fiore Limoncello either in the refrigerator or preferably in the freezer for several hours prior to serving.
What kind of vodka is best for limoncello?
What Alcohol to Use? If you have the option, 100 proof vodka or even higher-proof grain alcohol is the very best to use for making limoncello. This will extract more and better lemon flavor from the peels, and makes a smoother, less cloying limoncello.
How traditional limoncello is made in Italy?
Mainly produced in Southern Italy in the regions around the Gulf of Naples, the Sorrentine Peninsula, and the Amalfi Coast, limoncello is made by steeping lemon zest in alcohol then combining it with a sugar reduction. Making homemade limoncello is simple, though the time factor varies.
How long does limoncello last?
You should generally try to consume limoncello within 2 years of creating or opening it. Limoncello only contains 4 ingredients, 2 of which are preservatives. So, it will never “go bad” like milk would but it does lose its lemon scent and flavor over time.
What do you eat limoncello with?
Limoncello is a natural companion to many classic Italian desserts, such as panna cotta, tiramisu and ricotta pie. It can also be added to these recipes for a nice twist. For simple yet sublime dishes, pour chilled limoncello over fresh fruit, gelato or pound cake.
What is the best way to drink limoncello?
Straight and ice-cold, directly into a shot glass is how you serve limoncello. Limoncello served at freezing temperatures is more viscous (syrup-y) than at room temperature. Because it warms quickly, it’s best to serve it in small portions such as a shot glass.
Is limoncello high in alcohol?
Most limoncello is bottled between 28 percent and 32 percent alcohol by volume (ABV, 56 to 64 proof). It is possible to make your own limoncello using high-proof neutral grain alcohol (Everclear and vodka are popular choices).
Can limoncello be left out after opening?
Limoncello can be left at room temperature unopened without going bad within a few days. However, if opened, leaving the bottle out and not refrigerated will eventually lead to the beverage spoiling. Therefore, for an extended shelf life and best results when stored and served, this drink should be kept chilled.
Why is my limoncello bitter?
The most important thing is to have as little pith [ the white stuff under the lemon peel ] as possible. Too much will make your limoncello bitter – drinkable but bitter. You can use a zester, vegetable peeler or an intensely sharp knife.
What is the difference between Limoncino and limoncello?
Well, yes and no — while both drinks are made from essentially the same ingredients, they have different names. And like most things Italian, it’s a regional thing. In the North, around the Portofino/Cinque Terre region (close to Lucca), it’s Limoncino. In the South, around Naples/Sorrento, it’s Limoncello.
Why do you drink limoncello after dinner?
Typically, limoncello is served following a meal at a traditional restaurant or within the walls (or on the patio) of the Italian home. Lemon is known to aid in digestion, which is why this delicious beverage it is often served after lunch or dinner as a tasty treat.
Can diabetics drink limoncello?
Citrus Basil Limoncello
Lemon is also suitable for people with diabetes as it has a low glycemic index. It can help in lowering both your sugar levels and insulin levels.