In the Pacific Northwest there’s no real winter – only grey.  If you’ve ever seen The Never Ending Story an Island winter could be compared to a 6 month battle against The Nothing.  But don’t worry, I’m prepared – I’ve got bacon & vodka.

Making my own bacon infused vodka is possibly the best thing I’ve ever done – especially since this past weekend was my annual staff party.   Needless to say my boyfriend/chef and I were more than happy to sample the smoky, spicy concoction.

I’ll admit that the previous night’s open bar may have clouded my judgement but this was the best caesar I have ever had – ever.  Garnished with a stalk of celery & homemade dilly beans the only thing that could have made it better was a fresh slice of crispy bacon (which I might try in a non-life-or-death hangover situation).

Infusing vodka with different flavours is too easy – buy vodka, put things in vodka, leave on counter for about a week & strain.  That’s it.  If the infusion is a little greasy (say…from bacon?) just put it in the fridge before straining to help solidify the fat and use cheesecloth or a coffee filter to catch all the little bits.

I also did a batch of local pear & vanilla infused vodka that tastes great with just a splash of soda water.  I’m already thinking of new things to throw in my vodka (basil, lemon, coffee) but the list is endless.  What are you going to make?