A cordial is a mixture of spirit, flavorings and sugar. While it’s not the same as a liqueur, it serves a similar role in a cocktail, and it’s useful to be able to DIY in a pinch. The vodka base, flavored with orange rind and orange blossom water, is more neutral than a brandy- or rum-based orange liqueur, so it plays well in a wide range of drinks. In addition, the consistency will be lighter and less viscous than a traditional liqueur. Try it in drinks that typically call for orange liqueur, like a Cosmopolitan, Sidecar or Margarita riff.
Orange Cordial
Adapted from Apoteke: Modern Medicinal Cocktails, by Christopher Tierney and Erica Brod
Ingredients
Yield: 1 cup
- 1 cup vodka
- Rind of 2 to 3 medium-sized oranges
- 1/4 cup raw cane sugar
- 1/4 ounce orange blossom water
Directions
- In a large measuring cup, steep the vodka with the orange rind until a strong orange flavor develops, about 6 hours. Remove the orange rind and discard.
- Place the orange-infused vodka into a small saucepan set over low heat, and add the cane sugar, stirring to dissolve. Do not allow it to boil. Let cool.
- When cool, add the orange blossom water. Transfer to a clean, airtight glass container.