SIMA (FINNISH SPRING MEAD)

Steps:

• Bring the water to a steady boil.
• Meanwhile, use a zester or vegetable peeler to remove the yellow outer rind from the lemons and place in a large non-metal, heatproof container.
• Peel, or trim, off the white rind and discard.
• Slice the lemons and place in the container with the zest. Add the brown sugar and white sugar.
• When the water boils, add it to the container with the lemons and sugar.
• Let it cool to lukewarm, then stir in the yeast.
• Cover and allow to sit out at room temperature for 24-48 hours, or until surface begins to bubble slightly.
• Strain the liquid into clean containers about 1 quart in size. Add 5-6 raisins and 1 tsp sugar to each container. Seal tightly and refrigerate 2-5 days, or until raisins float to the surface.
• Keep refrigerated and serve cool.