Traditional Lithuanian Krupnikas Recipe

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Traditional Lithuanian Krupnikas Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 21, 2023

Discover the rich flavors of Lithuanian cuisine with this traditional Krupnikas recipe. Made with a combination of spices, honey, and grain alcohol, this warming drink is perfect for cold winter nights. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can easily whip up a batch to share with friends and family. Explore the unique taste of Lithuanian culture and tradition in every sip of this delightful beverage.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup grain alcohol
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup honey
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 teaspoons dried orange peel
  • 1 teaspoon dried lemon peel
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the water over medium heat.
  2. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, dried orange peel, and dried lemon peel to the saucepan.
  3. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
  4. After 10 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and strain out the spices.
  5. Return the spiced water to the saucepan and stir in the honey until it dissolves completely.
  6. Next, add the grain alcohol to the saucepan and stir well to combine.
  7. Add the vanilla extract, nutmeg, cardamom, allspice, ginger, fennel seeds, and coriander seeds to the saucepan and mix thoroughly.
  8. Place the saucepan back on medium heat and gently warm the mixture until it is hot but not boiling.
  9. Once heated, remove the saucepan from heat and let the Krupnikas cool slightly.
  10. Using a ladle, pour the Krupnikas into individual serving glasses or mugs.
  11. Garnish each glass with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a cinnamon stick, if desired.
  12. Serve the Krupnikas warm and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Krupnikas is a traditional Lithuanian spiced honey liqueur, often referred to as 'Lithuanian Christmas Eve Liquor'.
  • The recipe for Krupnikas varies from region to region and even from family to family, with each adding their own unique blend of spices.
  • Traditionally, Krupnikas was prepared by grandmothers and served during the Christmas season as a symbol of good health and prosperity.
  • The word 'Krupnikas' comes from the Lithuanian word 'krupiai', meaning barley groats, which were an original ingredient in the drink.