Spiced arancello

• large oranges↗5
• cinnamon stick↗1
• cardamom pods↗2-3
• vanilla pod↗1
• bottle vodka↗1l l
• caster sugar↗600g g
• a few extra oranges, cinnamon sticks, cardamom and vanilla pods

  to bottle

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Pare the zest from the oranges using a peeler, making sure that none of the bitter white pith is left on the peel. Put the zest, spices and vanilla pod in one large or several smaller clean jars, then tip in the vodka. Seal and leave for a week, shaking the jar each day.

2. 2

   After one week, you’re ready for the next stage. Boil a kettle of water. Put the sugar in a heatproof bowl, then pour over 500ml boiling water, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add to the vodka mix, then leave for another week, shaking the jar regularly. Strain into decorative bottles, discarding the peel and spices, and store in a cool place until Christmas. Before giving, drop some fresh spices and peel into each bottle to decorate. Will keep bottled for 6 months.