Sima - A Fermented flavor of Finland
A bubbly Finnish beverage
Sima is a traditional Finnish mead fermented from sugar and yeast. The fermentation process leaves the low alcoholic mead slightly sweet with a sparkling effervescence and a lemon, caramel flavor. ‘Sima’ is the old Finnish word for ‘honey’, which is traditionally used in the fermentation of mead. Traditionally Sima is enjoyed as a seasonal drink during the spring and summer, often used to celebrate the Vappu Festival. It pairs well with traditional sweets: munkki (donut), a tippaleipä (a special Vappu funnel cake), or a rosetti (rosette). Try a fermented flavor of Finland by following the instructions below. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
32 oz. water
1⁄2 cup white sugar
1⁄2 brown sugar
1 lemon, zested
2 teaspoon active dry yeast, or pea size fresh yeast
10-12 raisins
Instructions:
1. Combine water and sugars in medium pot, stirring constantly
over medium-high heat until sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove sugar water from heat and let cool to 100°F. Once cooled, remove a half cup of
water to separate bowl. Add yeast to 1⁄2 cup of water. Make sure water is at 100°F or it will kill
yeast.
3. Zest lemon, cut and discard pith from lemon flesh, as it will cause bitter flavor. Cut lemon into
slices.
4. Add lemon zest and flesh to pot of warm water (without yeast).
5. Once yeast has bloomed, pour it into pot with lemon sugar water.
6. Cover with plastic wrap, or tea towel secured with a rubber band. Let sit for 24 hours,
undisturbed.
7. After the 24-hour brew, remove lemon from liquid. Pour liquid in air tight container. Place 5-6
raisins per 16 oz. of liquid. Tighten lid and set to brew for 1-7 days. Once raisins float to the top,
the Sima is ready to drink but can sit longer if desired. The longer the brew, the stronger it
becomes, both in flavor and ABV content.
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Sima – A Fermented Flavor of Finland
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