These homemade Meyer Lemon-Orange Bitters are a zesty, aromatic addition to your cocktails, combining the bright flavors of organic oranges and Meyer lemons with warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and coriander. With a base of vodka and the classic bitter note from gentian root, these bitters add complexity and depth to your drinks. Perfect for enhancing your favorite cocktails, from Old Fashioneds to spritzers, this DIY recipe allows you to elevate your home bar with a personalized touch.
Meyer Lemon-Orange Bitters
Course: Cocktail IngredientCuisine: Beverage Enhancer750
ml of bitters15
minutesIngredients
4 organic oranges, well scrubbed
2 organic Meyer lemons, well scrubbed
1 tablespoon gentian root chips
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 (750-ml) bottle good-quality vodka, such as Prairie Organic
Directions
- Prepare the Citrus: Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest from the oranges and Meyer lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith. Set the zest aside.
- Toast the Spices: In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the fennel seeds, coriander seeds, and cloves for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large glass jar or container, combine the citrus zest, toasted spices, gentian root chips, and cinnamon stick. Pour the vodka over the mixture, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
- Infuse the Bitters: Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it gently every day to help infuse the flavors. After the infusion period, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle, discarding the solids.
- Bottle and Store: Transfer the bitters to small dropper bottles or a glass jar with a lid. Store the bitters in a cool, dark place. The flavors will continue to deepen over time.
These homemade Meyer Lemon-Orange Bitters will add a burst of citrus and spice to any cocktail. Whether you’re mixing up classic cocktails or creating something new, the unique combination of Meyer lemons, oranges, and warming spices will enhance your drinks with layers of flavor. Keep a bottle on hand for whenever you want to elevate your cocktail game!
