Grand Marnier

[straightchaos]

Grand Marnier
4 medium Oranges
1 Vanilla bean
2 1/2 cups Vodka
1 cup Brandy
1 cup white granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
Look for firm, heavy oranges which indicates lots of juice,
and smooth−skinned ones free from soft spots and mold.
Wash and peel oranges making sure to scrape ALL white rind
from the peels to avoid bitter flavor. Slice in strips and add to
liquor and vanilla bean. Steep 2−3 weeks, strain and filter.
Boil together water and sugar for about 5 minutes at a full boil
and be sure the sugar is dissolved. Allow to cool.
Add sugar syrup to orange liquor and let age for 4 weeks.

[Canalien]

Use Seville Oranges if you can get your hands on them. And if you can, let me know where, immediately. ;)

[straightchaos]

Use Seville Oranges if you can get your hands on them. And if you can, let me know where, immediately. ;)


Why Seville oranges?

[Canalien]

Seville Oranges (Citrus aurantium) have a very similar flavour and bitterness to Citrus bigaradia oranges, which are used in real Grand Marnier, but are much more widely available, and probably a lot cheaper. I still haven't come across any here in Australia though.

I'd also suggest adding a bit of cognac in place of some of the brandy and vodka if it's within your budget.