Meletti Sambuca Recipe

Infuse the Anise Flavor

In a medium saucepan, combine the anise seeds and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the anise to release its flavors into the water.

Strain the Mixture

After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the mixture into a clean bowl, discarding the solid anise seeds. You should have a fragrant liquid infused with the essence of anise.

Add Sugar

Return the strained liquid to the saucepan. Add the sugar and heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This should take about 5 minutes.

Add Flavor Enhancements

Once the sugar has dissolved, add the star anise, vanilla bean (split lengthwise), and orange zest to the saucepan. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for another 10 minutes. This will infuse the syrup with the additional flavors.

Cool the Mixture

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, strain the mixture again to remove the star anise, vanilla bean, and orange zest.

Combine with Alcohol

In a large glass container, combine the cooled infused syrup with the high-proof neutral spirit. Stir well to mix.

Bottle Your Sambuca

Using a funnel, pour the sambuca into clean glass bottles. Seal tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer you let it sit, the more pronounced the flavors will be.