POMEGRANATES

POMEGRANATE LIQUEUR

Preparation 15 minutes, plus infusing Makes about 1 litre Vibrant red pomegranates were once a truly seasonal treat that was only available in the winter months and brought a welcome zing of colour with their jewellike seeds. Now they’re sold all year round, but for a taste of tradition, this is the best time of year to enjoy them.

juice and seeds of 3 pomegranates 400g granulated sugar 750ml vodka 1 small cinnamon stick strip of unwaxed lemon peel

Put the pomegranate juice and seeds (discarding any pith) and sugar into a large bowl or sealable jar and stir well. Pour in the vodka. Add the cinnamon stick and lemon peel. Cover or seal and leave in a cool, dark place for a month. Shake every so often to ensure the sugar dissolves. Strain the liqueur through a muslin-lined sieve into a jug, then decant into sterilised bottles. Enjoy on its own with ice, or mix one part of the liqueur to five parts champagne or Prosecco.