Step into the heart of Belgian culinary heritage with this classic Belgien Jenever recipe. Jenever, also known as Belgian gin or genever, holds a cherished place in Belgian culture, renowned for its smoothness and aromatic complexity. Dating back centuries, this traditional spirit is not just a drink but a symbol of Belgian craftsmanship and conviviality.

Our recipe pays homage to the rich history of Belgien Jenever, offering a step-by-step guide to creating this delightful beverage at home. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a curious enthusiast, crafting your own Belgien Jenever allows you to appreciate its nuances while adding a personal touch to a time-honored tradition.

Join us on a journey through the flavors of Belgium as we delve into the art of crafting Belgien Jenever, capturing the essence of this beloved spirit in every sip.

Ingredients:

• 1 liter of high-quality neutral grain spirit (at least 40% alcohol by volume)
• 200 grams of malted barley
• 100 grams of juniper berries
• 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon of dried orange peel
• 1 teaspoon of dried lemon peel
• 1 teaspoon of angelica root
• 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom pods
• 1/2 teaspoon of grains of paradise (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of dried ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon of cloves

Instructions:

1- Begin by toasting the malted barley in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2- In a large glass jar or container, combine the toasted barley, juniper berries, coriander seeds, dried orange peel, dried lemon peel, angelica root, cardamom pods, grains of paradise (if using), dried ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

3- Pour the neutral grain spirit over the botanicals in the jar, ensuring that they are completely submerged. Seal the jar tightly.

4- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 48 hours, shaking it gently once or twice a day to agitate the ingredients.

5- After 48 hours, strain the infused spirit through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the solids.

6- If desired, filter the infused spirit again through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove any remaining sediment and achieve a clearer liquid.

7- Transfer the filtered Belgien Jenever into glass bottles or jars, ensuring they are tightly sealed. Store in a cool, dark place.

8- Allow the Belgien Jenever to mellow and develop its flavors for at least a week before serving. It will continue to improve with age.

9- Serve the Belgien Jenever chilled or over ice as an aperitif, or use it as a base for classic cocktails like the Gin and Tonic or the Martinez.

10- Enjoy responsibly, savoring the rich flavors and cultural heritage of this traditional Belgian spirit. Cheers!

Nutritional Values:

Sure, here are the approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients per serving size:

High-quality neutral grain spirit (1 liter):

• Calories: 2310 kcal
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:

• Provides the alcoholic base for the Belgien Jenever.
• Adds depth and potency to the final product.

Malted barley (200 grams):

• Calories: 716 kcal
• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Sodium: 12mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 146g
• Dietary Fiber: 16g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 16g

benefits:

• Imparts a malty flavor and richness to the Jenever.
• Contributes to the fermentation process, aiding in the development of alcohol.

Juniper berries (100 grams):

• Calories: 525 kcal
• Total Fat: 3.3g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 61g
• Dietary Fiber: 40g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 3.3g

benefits:

• Infuses the Jenever with a distinct piney and slightly peppery flavor.
• Known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits.

Coriander seeds (1 tablespoon, approximately 6 grams):

• Calories: 15 kcal
• Total Fat: 0.9g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 2.7g
• Dietary Fiber: 2.1g
• Sugars: 0.1g
• Protein: 0.6g

benefits:

• Adds a warm, citrusy, and slightly spicy note to the Jenever.
• Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Dried orange peel (1 teaspoon, approximately 2 grams):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 1.5g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.6g
• Sugars: 0.2g
• Protein: 0.1g

benefits:

• Enhances the aroma and citrus profile of the Jenever.
• Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, offering potential immune-boosting benefits.

Dried lemon peel (1 teaspoon, approximately 2 grams):

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 1.3g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.6g
• Sugars: 0.1g
• Protein: 0.1g

benefits:

• Provides a tangy and bright citrus flavor to the Jenever.
• Contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may promote overall health.

(Note: Nutritional values for smaller quantities like angelica root, cardamom pods, grains of paradise, dried ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are negligible and often not provided due to their low caloric and macronutrient content.)