Vanilla extract is always a big baking and flavoring staple in any kitchen. A long time ago I had watched an Ina Garten video segment on her homemade vanilla extract, and I was intrigued!!!
I recently started my own batch. Apparently, you only need two ingredients & time to make it happen!
You need grade B vanilla beans & alcohol! You can use vodka (the most neutral), bourbon, brandy or rum. I believe that you can use just about any spirit. I filled up my jar with 20 vanilla beans and brandy.
You want to slit the beans down the middle (no need for scraping), and stand them up in the jar. Simply fill up the jar with booze! Put it in a dark place, and forget about it for at least 6-8 weeks. The longer you leave it, the more intense it will become! And you can simply top it off with more alcohol down the line.
When this baby is ready, I won’t have to buy any ever again!
The ratio:
5–6 vanilla beans
1 cup (8 ounces; 240ml) 80 proof vodka (or bourbon, brandy, or even rum)
8 ounce bottle or jar with a tight seal, washed & dried
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