Strawberry Cordial

This recipe for a simple to prepare and delicious liqueur, comes from Evelyn at the Recipe*Zaar website.  I heard about it at a favorite foodie forum and had to give it a try.  I'm certainly glad I did.  I served it the first time after our last thanksgiving dinner and it was a smash hit.  Be forewarned though, because it packs a wallop :)

Clean the berries without washing and set aside in a tall ½ gallon jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Mix sugar with water over low heat until dissolved.  Increase heat, bring to a boil and set aside to cool.  Mix the cooled sugar mixture with the vodka and pour over the berries.  Cover tightly and store in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week (I found 2 weeks worked very well.)

Pass the liqueur through a fine mesh strainer, reserving the berries.  Strain the liqueur one last time through a coffee filter to remove any tiny berry seeds.  Serve with or without a berry or two (or just munch the berries as they are:)

Notes:

There is no reason this won't work with other berries.  I substituted 2 cups of raspberries for the strawberries and it was wonderful!