Pineapple-Mint Vodka
This recipe creates a vibrant, naturally flavored vodka by infusing a full bottle with fresh pineapple slices and aromatic mint sprigs. It's an easy process that yields a delightful spirit perfect for cocktails or sipping chilled, offering a tropical and refreshing twist on classic vodka.
Equipment
- 1 Large Glass Jar with Lid For infusion, minimum 1-liter capacity
- 1 Cutting Board For preparing pineapple
- 1 Chef's knife For peeling and slicing pineapple
- 1 Fine-Mesh Strainer or Sieve For straining solids after infusion
- 1 Funnel Optional, for easy bottling
Ingredients
Main
- 1 pineapple peeled, sliced
- 1 750 ml bottle vodka
- 2 sprigs mint
Instructions
- Carefully peel and core the pineapple, then slice it into manageable pieces, ensuring they are small enough to fit into your infusion jar.
- Gently wash and pat dry the mint sprigs; avoid crushing them to prevent bitterness.
- Place the prepared pineapple slices and mint sprigs into a large, clean glass jar or pitcher.
- Pour the entire 750 ml bottle of vodka over the pineapple and mint, ensuring all solids are submerged.
- Seal the jar tightly with a lid.
- Store the sealed jar in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight.
- Allow the vodka to infuse for a minimum of 3 days, gently shaking the jar once daily to distribute flavors.
- After 3 days, taste a small amount. Continue infusing for up to 7 days, or until the desired pineapple and mint flavor strength is achieved.
- Once infused to your liking, strain the vodka through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or back into the original vodka bottle, discarding the solids.
- Cap the infused vodka and store it chilled, ready to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for your favorite cocktails.
Notes
For optimal flavor, ensure your pineapple is perfectly ripe – it should be fragrant and yield slightly to pressure. When adding mint, simply drop whole sprigs into the infusion; avoid bruising or muddling them, as this can release chlorophyll and impart a bitter, grassy note. Infusion time is crucial: start tasting after 3 days and continue up to a week, or until the desired flavor intensity is achieved. Over-infusing, especially with the mint, can lead to off-notes. Always strain thoroughly before bottling to remove any solids that could cause spoilage. This infused vodka is excellent chilled on its own or as a base for refreshing summer cocktails with a splash of soda water or lime.