Viryta (Lithuanian Honey Liqueur)

Ingredients

• 1 lemon
• 1 orange
• 1 pound honey
• 3.5 cups bottled water
• 3 cups white sugar
• 3 tablespoons caraway seeds
• 25 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 2 pintss 190 proof grain alcohol

Instructions

1. 1

   Peel orange and lemon in a circular motion in a large strip. Place peels in a warm, dry area to dry for 24 hours.

2. 2

   Stir honey, 1 cup water, sugar, caraway seeds, cloves, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg together in a large pot; bring to a rolling boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 45 minutes. Add dried orange and lemon peels to honey mixture; continue to simmer for 15 minutes.

3. 3

   Remove from heat; discard fruit peels. Stir grain alcohol and remaining 2 1/2 cups water into honey mixture. Transfer mixture to a glass container and tightly cover with a lid. Place in a cool location out of direct sunlight and let set, gently swirling container every few days, for 1 week.

4. 4

   Strain mixture through double-layered cheesecloth to remove sediment. Pour liqueur into bottles or decanters and seal.