Mint or Herb Extract
What's needed
1 cup mint or herb leaves, cleaned and packed
1/2 cup vodka
Let's make it
Remove the stems and crush leaves with your fingers to release some of the oils and chop finely. Let steep for 4 to 6 weeks or until leaves are wilted. With mint or other herbs, the leaves will wilt and the flavor will stop developing. To continue infusing mint and herb flavor, remove the leaves after wilting and then add a fresh batch to the drained liquid to increase the steep time. Keep repeating until the flavor has reached your desired taste. Strain and pour extract into a clean jar. Store in a dark place or the refrigerator.
If you are using dried herbs you will need to add more alcohol over the next day or two as the dried herbs absorb and expand. A good ratio for dried material is about 1 part herb to 5 parts alcohol and with fresh material 1 part herb to 3 parts alcohol.