The traditional Nordic spirit for which Aquavit was named literally translates as “water of life.” Infused vodka can capture the essence of anything from horseradish to strawberries, but the beet version is classic, and simple to make at home. Try this recipe from our current issue.
Beet-Infused Aquavit
from Marcus Jenmark, executive chef at Aquavit
1 pound golden beets
1 (1-liter) bottle potato vodka
Wrap beets in aluminum foil and bake at 300 degrees until a knife slipped in meets no resistance, about an hour. Cool, peel, cut into small chunks, drop into the vodka and close bottle or cover tightly. Steep 1 week, then remove beets. Infusion will be a deep yellow, and redolent with beets’ earthiness.
