Tentoura: Spiced Greek Liqueur

• Cinnamon stick5 large
• Nutmeg1/2 tsp ground
• Clove20 whole
• Orange peelfrom 1/2 orange, fresh
• Pure alcohol (or vodka)500 ml (40-50% ABV)
• Sugar200 g
• Water200 ml

How to Make It

• 1

  Gather your spices: 5 large cinnamon sticks, 20 whole cloves, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and the fresh peel from half an orange (avoiding the white pith). These aromatic ingredients form the heart of Tentoura's distinctive flavor.

• 2

  Place all the spices and the orange peel into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar (at least 1-liter capacity). Pour in 500ml of pure alcohol or good quality vodka (40-50% ABV). Ensure the spices are fully submerged.

• 3

  Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for a minimum of 15 days, ideally 30 days, to allow the flavors to fully infuse. Gently shake the jar once a day for the first week, then occasionally, to ensure proper extraction.

• 4

  After the infusion period, prepare a simple syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 200g sugar and 200ml water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Let the syrup cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial for clarity and flavor.

• 5

  Once the syrup is cool, carefully strain the infused alcohol through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a clean bowl, discarding the used spices. This ensures a smooth, clear liqueur free of particulate matter.

• 6

  Slowly pour the cooled simple syrup into the strained spiced alcohol, stirring gently to combine. Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness if desired by adding a small amount of additional cooled simple syrup or a touch more alcohol for intensity.

• 7

  Transfer the finished Tentoura into clean, decorative glass bottles. Seal tightly. The liqueur is ready to enjoy immediately but benefits from resting for a few more days or even weeks for the flavors to fully harmonize and deepen.

• 8

  Serve Tentoura chilled, either neat in small cordial glasses or over ice as a digestif. It can also be a delightful addition to coffee or certain dessert preparations, especially those with apple or chocolate.