Sarsaparilla Bitters

1.5 to 2 cups of 100-proof (50% ABV) alcohol—like vodka or a high-proof bourbon

1 tbsp dried gentian root or dandelion root

1 tbsp sarsaparilla root

1 cinnamon stick

2-3 whole cloves

1 tsp chopped vanilla bean

A pinch of star anise (optional)

2 tbsp maple syrup or agave syrup

Combine Botanicals: Place the gentian root, sarsaparilla, cinnamon, cloves, and other aromatics into a clean, 1-pint glass mason jar.
Infuse: Pour the alcohol over the ingredients, ensuring everything is fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
Steep: Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 14 days. Shake it daily to help extract the flavors.
Strain: After two weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl.
Sweeten: Stir in the maple or agave syrup to balance the bitterness.
Bottle: Transfer the finished bitters into smaller dropper or dash bottles.

Course🧅Condiment

Diets🌱Vegan🌾Gluten-free...

Category🥤Beverage

Cuisine🇺🇸American

Occasions🍸CocktailsMixology

Season🔁Year-round

DifficultyEasy ⏰