Krambambula Liqueur Punch
Krambambula is a traditional Belarusian alcoholic beverage, often considered the national drink. It's a potent and flavorful concoction made from vodka, honey, and a blend of aromatic spices, typically enjoyed warm. Historically, it was a drink for the wealthy due to the cost of imported spices, but now it's more accessible and popular for its warming and festive qualities.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 ml Vodka
- 250 ml Water
- 100 g Honey
- 2 pieces Cinnamon sticks
- 5 pieces Cloves
- 5 pieces Allspice berries
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg(freshly grated)
- 5-6 pieces Black peppercorns
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, combine the water, half of the vodka, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, nutmeg, and black peppercorns. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- 2
Stir in the honey until fully dissolved. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
- 3
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the remaining vodka. If you prefer a stronger drink, you can adjust the amount of vodka.
- 4
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the spices. Discard the solids.
- 5
Pour the strained Krambambula into a clean bottle or decanter. Seal tightly and let it infuse in a cool, dark place for at least 7 days. The longer it infuses, the richer the flavor will become.
- 6
To serve, gently warm the Krambambula (do not boil) or serve it chilled. It can also be served with a few fresh peppercorns added to the bottle for an extra kick.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and increase the water quantity, simmering the spices and honey for a longer period to create a flavorful syrup.
- ✓Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to your preference.
- ✓The quality of the vodka will significantly impact the final taste, so use a good quality brand.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes suggest adding a pinch of ground hot pepper for a spicier kick.
- Experiment with other spices like star anise or cardamom.