Mock Aquavit

Adapted from Kitchen of Light: New Scandinavian Cooking with Andreas Viestad by Andres Viestad (Artisan, 2003).

Makes 1 liter

It may not always be so easy to find aquavit in liquor stores in the United States. Although there are many fine commercially made aquavits, I actually prefer homemade "mock" aquavit. Only then do I have the opportunity to experiment with all the flavors I like: aniseed, angelica, wormwood, juniper, lemon zest, curled mint, etc.

2 teaspoons caraway seeds, or more
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
2 teaspoons dill seeds
2 star anise
1 tablespoon coriander seeds
1 whole clove
One 1-inch cinnamon stick (optional)
2 teaspoons cumin seeds (optional)
One 1-liter bottle potato vodka

Add the spices to the vodka bottle and cover tightly. Let stand for 2 to 3 weeks, depending on how strong you want the aquavit to be. Shake the bottle every once in a while.

When the aquavit has reached the desired intensity of flavor, strain and discard the solids; return the aquavit to the bottle.

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