### Types of Vodka Infusions 1. **Fruit Infusions**: These are the most common and include ingredients like berries, citrus, and tropical fruits. - **Examples**: Lemon, raspberry, mango. 2. **Herb and Spice Infusions**: These involve fresh herbs or spices and can offer complex flavors. - **Examples**: Basil, rosemary, cinnamon, vanilla. 3. **Vegetable Infusions**: These are great for savory cocktails and include non-sweet produce. - **Examples**: Cucumber, chili peppers, garlic. 4. **Sweet and Dessert Infusions**: These infusions often incorporate sweeteners or dessert-like flavors. - **Examples**: Chocolate, caramel, whipped cream. ### Popular Variations - **Citrus Infusion**: Infuse vodka with a combination of lemon, lime, and orange peels. It’s great for martinis or mixed with soda. - **Berry Infusion**: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Perfect for summer cocktails. - **Herbal Infusion**: A mix of rosemary, thyme, and mint can create a refreshing twist suitable for mojitos or gin-like cocktails. - **Spicy Infusion**: Infusing vodka with jalapeño or habanero peppers adds a kick that’s great for bloody marys. ### Making Your Infusion **Ingredients**: - Vodka (preferably high-quality for a smoother taste) - Your choice of infusion ingredients (e.g., fruits, herbs, spices) **Instructions**: 1. **Prepare Ingredients**: Wash and prepare your ingredients. For fruits, chop them into smaller pieces. Herbs can be left whole or slightly crushed to release flavors. 2. **Combine Ingredients with Vodka**: Place your ingredients in a clean jar and fill it with vodka. The amount of ingredients can vary based on how intense you want the flavor. Generally, a handful of fruit or a few sprigs of herbs per liter of vodka is a good start. 3. **Seal and Store**: Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar lightly every day to mix the flavors. 4. **Taste and Wait**: Start tasting your infusion after a few days. Once the desired flavor strength is reached, it can take anywhere from 3 days to several weeks. 5. **Strain and Store**: Once the flavor is right, strain out the solids using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Store the infused vodka in a clean bottle.