I never knew that vanilla extract wasn't always just vanilla extract. Turns out some of it is artificial - okay I knew that. But some of it is also mixed with corn syrup and artificial colors. In a quest to save money, and get crafty in the kitchen, I searched online to find a way to make my own. Hello, Pinterest!
Get the scoop after the jump
Check out the easy ingredients:
6+ vanilla beans - the best you can afford.
2 cups vodka - go for something mid range here. No need for Ina Garten's Grey Goose recipe, but definitely skip the Monarch brand too.
Simply slice your vanilla beans in half lengthwise, but don't scrape the caviar out. Add them to a large container with a tight fitting lid. Cover with vodka, and let it sit in a dark, cool place for at least three months. The longer they steep, the richer the flavor. I use a quart sized canning jar and let it hang out in my pantry. Shake the jar every few days, and be amazed at the transformation. Eventually, your mostly clear vodka will turn in to a lovely dark brown liquid. For the second batch, I just added more fresh beans and vodka to the jar from the first batch.
I bought my beans online from Amazon, and was able to get 1/2 lb. for about 25 dollars. Score! They came in a sealed bag and are very fresh. You really only need 6 beans for 2 cups of vodka. I also bought those cute jars from Amazon and packaged up my last batch of vanilla extract for Christmas gifts last year. Add a cute label and a ribbon, and you are set!
I've used this extract in recipes with really good results. Next time, I'm going to try bourbon for a more bold flavor.
Enjoy!
Surely you want to give some of this to your favorite Eastside photographer buddy...
ReplyDeleteI may have an extra bottle to offer up. The batch in the jar in the picture is almost ready too (I started it in January, but want to give it a full 6 months).
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