URSA Organic Rectified Spirit

Cooking alcohol can also be used to make tinctures.

Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of herbs, spices, or other flavoring agents. Here’s a simple guide on how to make tinctures using cooking alcohol:

Ingredients:

1. Dried herbs, spices, or other flavoring agents

2. High-proof alcohol (URSA Organic Rectified Spirit 96%)

3. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

4. A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

5. A small funnel

6. Dark glass bottles for storing the tincture

Steps:

1. Select Your Ingredients:

Choose the herbs, spices, or flavoring agents you want to use in your tincture. Ensure they are thoroughly dried, as moisture can lead to spoilage.

2. Measure and Combine:

Measure the amount of your chosen ingredients and add them to the glass jar.

Pour enough high-proof alcohol over the ingredients to completely cover them. The ratio of alcohol to ingredients depends on the strength you desire, but a common starting point is a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio (1 part herbs to 2 or 3 parts alcohol).

3. Seal the Jar:

Seal the jar with the tight-fitting lid, ensuring it’s airtight. Make sure all the ingredients are submerged in alcohol.

4. Shake and Steep:

Place the sealed jar in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard. Shake the jar gently every day or so to agitate the mixture. Let it steep for at least 2-4 weeks, although some tinctures benefit from longer steeping periods.

5. Strain the Tincture:

After the steeping period, strain the tincture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container. Squeeze the herbs to extract as much liquid as possible.

6. Bottle and Store:

Use a small funnel to pour the strained tincture into dark glass bottles. Amber or blue bottles are ideal, as they protect the tincture from light, which can degrade its quality.

Label the bottles with the tincture name and the date it was made.

7. Usage:

Tinctures can be used in cooking, baking, or as a flavoring agent in cocktails and beverages. The strength and flavor will vary depending on the tincture and the amount you use.

Remember that tinctures are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way. When using them in recipes, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Also, be aware of the alcohol content when using tinctures, especially if you plan to consume them.