Never in my life, did I think I would want to drink my homemade
Vanilla!It smells so heavenly every time I open the bottle.
In fact when I'm baking, my Hubby, and last daughter left at home, will remind me to go easy on the Vanilla! But it is so hard!
I had never tasted real Vanilla until just four years ago. I didn't know what I was missing, but now that I do, and I realize it's less expensive to have real vanilla than the weird, chemically laden substitute, I'm sold.
Making your own Vanilla is a snap.
You'll need:- Quart or Tall Jars
- 100 proof Vodka (50% Alcohol or stronger)
- Vanilla Beans (The volume of Vanilla Bean is up to you. I usually buy 1/2 lb, and divide them up between 3-4 qts, although some recipes only call for as little as 2 or 3 Vanilla Pods per quart. I would rather concentrate those flavors, and use less, store less, and get better flavor, so I put quite a few in my jars.)
Instructions:- With a sharp knife, slice your vanilla pods lengthwise to open them up, and if they are longer than your jar, cut them in half so all your pods are immersed in the liquid at the end.
- Divide your pods between your jars (I like quart size or larger)
- Cover pods with Vodka until all bean are covered.
- Put your lid on.
- Store in a cool dark place.
- Shake Daily for two weeks (its more vital the first few days...)
You could begin using your vanilla as early as six weeks, but I am a stickler for taste. So mine will steep and age for nearly six months before I begin using it.
It makes all the difference in the world in baking, candies, and everything else.
Enjoy having enough Vanilla for years to come with practically no
effort and minimal cost! Try giving it as a gift!
