Here is the equipment you need if you want to try making instant infusions yourself:
- Cream Whipper (this one gets good reviews and much better price that the high-end ones)
- N2O Cartridges
And here is the original article that describes the process along with several other ideas for infusions – they are mostly from a chef’s perspective rather than a brewer, but there are a couple I’ve used myself. My preferred technique after a little experimentation is to use two cartridges each for 60 seconds, shaking the whole time; then release the N2O all at once. The whipper I use is 500ml (1/2 pint). You need to leave some head space or else you will spray vodka all over the place. I found a good ratio was 250ml (1/4 pint) liquor in my 500ml whipper.
Some interesting things to try that I haven’t got to yet: hops, peppers (ugh), other liquors (bourbon, brandy, beer)… I’m sure ya’ll will have some great idea.
A few tips:
- Green herbs that turn brown when cut (like basil) will also lead to an infusion that eventually turns brown.
- Unlike making whipped cream, room temperature is best for all ingredients.
- It’s very hard to taste vodka in beer. I’ve put as much as 1/2 liter of vodka infusions into a 5 gallon batch without being able to taste any change.