Homemade Orange Extract Recipe using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

Name: Homemade Orange Extract Recipe
Prep time: 48 h
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 48 h 5 min
Ingredients: 2 Fresh Oranges; 4 fl oz 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

by Scott Galbiati

Fresh oranges slices for extraction recipes using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

Orange extract, with its potent citrus flavor and aroma, can be a game-changer in your cooking adventures. This post will guide you on how to create your own orange extract using fresh oranges and 200 proof food grade ethanol. We'll also touch on the best practices for selecting oranges, storing your finished extract, and ways to incorporate this fresh, homemade ingredient into your culinary repertoire.

Selecting Ideal Oranges for Your Extraction Recipes

For a rich, flavorful extract, the quality of your oranges is paramount. Look for fresh, firm oranges with a vibrant orange color. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating that they are juicy. Smooth-skinned oranges usually yield more zest than those with a rough, textured skin. Opt for organic oranges whenever possible, as you'll be using the zest, and organic fruits are free from synthetic pesticides that could potentially compromise the flavor of your extract.

Homemade Orange Extract Recipe

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Prep Time

48 hours

Cook Time

5 minutes

Orange extract, with its potent citrus flavor and aroma, can be a game-changer in your cooking adventures.

Ingredients

2 Fresh Oranges
4 fl oz 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

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Directions

Prepare

Select fresh, firm oranges that are bright orange on the exterior, with as few blemishes on the outside as possible.
Wash your oranges with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse well and allow to dry.

Combine Ingredients

Carefully zest 2 oranges using a microplane or vegetable peeler. Avoid the white pith underneath the orange outer layer which can add unwanted extra bitterness to the finished extract.
Place the zest into a clean glass jar with an air tight lid.
Pour 4 fl oz of 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol on top of the orange zest. Ensure zest is fully submerged under the food grade ethanol. Do not use the juice, pulp, or pith of the citrus fruit for this recipe, see notes below.

Wait

Seal the jar and store in a cool dark place for 48 hours. Shake or swirl the jar after 24 hours to ensure even adequate coverage of 200 proof alcohol over the zest.

Strain and Store

After the steeping period, strain the extract from the zest using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.

Recipe Note

Extracts only use the citrus oils found in the outer zest of the fruit. Save the inner pulp and juice for other recipes or to enjoy on their own.

Store finished extracts in the smallest bottles available, avoid too much headspace for maximum flavor retention and shelf life.

Citrus extracts are best used within 1-2 weeks, the bright citrus flavor contained within your homemade extract will eventually fade away after 1-2 months.

Storing Your Orange Extract

To preserve the freshness and potency of your orange extract, store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a kitchen cabinet. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, which could degrade the quality of the extract. Ensure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent the alcohol from evaporating and to limit the exposure to air, which could oxidize the extract over time.

Creative Uses for Your Homemade Orange Extract

Your homemade orange extract is a versatile addition to your culinary creations. It can enhance the flavor of baked goods like cakes, muffins, and cookies, adding a delightful citrusy note. It also works wonders in savory dishes, marinades, and salad dressings, adding a depth of flavor that's hard to beat. You could even add a dash to your cocktails for a refreshing twist!

In conclusion, creating your own orange extract is not only a fun kitchen project but also a pathway to enhancing your dishes with the rich, citrusy flavors of fresh oranges.

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