Viryta (Lithuanian Honey Liqueur)

This is a sweet, very potent beverage that can be found at Lithuanian festivals and Lithuanian social clubs in Baltimore. They usually pronounce it 'VIT-a-tis'. Viryta is usually homemade by descendants of Lithuanian immigrants, using recipes that have been handed down through the generations, and is a popular commodity around the holidays. It took me years to finally get someone to teach me how to make it; most of the people around Baltimore who make it are very secretive about their family recipes! I'd probably catch an earful if she knew I posted it online!

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 60 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Calories: 187 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups white sugar
• 1 lemon
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 orange
• 25 whole cloves
• 3 tablespoons caraway seeds
• 1 pound honey
• 3 ½ cups bottled water
• 2 pints 190 proof grain alcohol

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Peel orange and lemon in a circular motion in a large strip. Place peels in a warm, dry area to dry for 24 hours.

Step 2

Stir honey, 1 cup water, sugar, caraway seeds, cloves, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg together in a large pot; bring to a rolling boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 45 minutes. Add dried orange and lemon peels to honey mixture; continue to simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 3

Remove from heat; discard fruit peels. Stir grain alcohol and remaining 2 1/2 cups water into honey mixture. Transfer mixture to a glass container and tightly cover with a lid. Place in a cool location out of direct sunlight and let set, gently swirling container every few days, for 1 week.

Step 4

Strain mixture through double-layered cheesecloth to remove sediment. Pour liqueur into bottles or decanters and seal.