Skip to content

Sicilian Cooking

sicilan-LOGO-2-1
menta-verde-8

Mint Rosolio

( Rosolio alla Menta )

In Greek mythology, the mint was the symbol of hospitality. The attractive green colored Mint Rosolio is a refreshing drink and served with plenty of ice on hot days. Mint liquor is also mixed to make cocktails, however since ancient times mint tea or a forerunner of Mint Rosolio that is an infusion with mint, honey and wine was a common remedy for cough and sore throat.

As a child, the Mint Rosolio was captivating my imagination and I liked it for the green color and the cool sensation that it gave to my throat: my mother would give me a tablespoon of it to cure my fake mal di gola- sore throat, or cough.

  • Yield2 fifths
  • Wines and DrinksMint Rosolio

    Ingredients

    • About 75 mint leaves (1 ¼ cups)
    • 2 cloves, crushed
    • 1 qt. 100 proof vodka
    • 2 cups of sugar (1 lb.)
    • 2 cups of water

    Instructions

    1

    THE MINT
    Carefully sort and discard any bruised mint leaves. Wash thoroughly with cold water. Place in a colander and drain for a few minutes. Gently pat dry with a clean dish towel or paper towels. In a large and airtight jar mix the mint, cloves and the vodka: seal and marinade for 2 days. Place the jar in a cool place and shake it occasionally.

    2

    THE SYRUP
    In a saucepan, over a medium heat, combine and mix the sugar and the water; keep stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Lower the heat and simmer the syrup for 15 minutes, without boiling it. Set aside to cool.

    3

    THE MINT ROSOLIO
    Combine the cooled syrup with the mint infusion and strain the rosolio using a paper filter or a piece of cotton cloth or a few layers of cheesecloth; discard the mint and any residue. Bottle and seal the rosolio: it will be ready to use in about two weeks.