Easy Homemade Vanilla Extract

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Pure vanilla extract, ahhhhh, what a rich, earthy aroma and an essential flavor in most kitchens. However, pure, good-tasting vanilla extract has become an expensive ingredient. For those of us who choose not to use imitation vanilla (which neither tastes or smells like the real thing and may contain nothing healthy), there are only a few options. 1) Shell out the money for the best vanilla you can afford. 2) Buy in bulk and save a bit or 3) Make your own for a fraction of the cost and a taste that  surpasses even the most expensive vanilla.

It’s easy, simple and produces a surperb end product. Here’s all you need:

• Vodka (8o% proof)
• Vanilla beans (figure 10-20 vanilla beans per quart of vodka. Some like 10 beans, I prefer 20)
• Time (3-6 months)
• Dark, cool storage

Choose a good brand of vanilla bean, I like Olive Nation, or Beanilla. Buy in bulk and on sale for the best value. You are looking for fresh, dark, thick, moist and plump vanilla beans.

Choose any type of vodka, 80 proof. Stay away from the higher proof options or flavored vodka or brand names. I get the least expensive vodka because it really has no taste. The information available indicates that more vanilla is absorbed by a lower proof alcohol rather than a higher proof one, so don’t be tempted to buy the higher proof vodka.

Simple directions:

• Slice each vanilla bean  in half lengthwise
• Cut the vanilla beans into 3-inch pieces
• Place the vanilla beans into the vodka
• Cap the container, shake well and place in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry.

• Shake the container every day for 30 days, then once a week for 3 – 6 months. Taste and use or let sit and “season” longer. It only gets better the longer it steeps.

To use the extract, strain  and funnel the larger container into smaller ones (I refer to use an amber glass bottle to keep light out). As you use the vanilla extract from the steeping container, keep the beans in the container and top off with fresh vodka, thus extending the extract. OR, you can remove the used vanilla beans and use them for baking or into organic sucanat for vanilla sugar.

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