Vanilla Beans
Source of Recipe
Marla
Vanilla Beans
I don't know if it would be THAT much less expensive because I haven't bought vanilla beans. in a few months -- they may have skyrocketed in price, too. I keep an old Grolsch beer bottle in the cabinet and add beans or alcohol to it as needed. Every year or so I strain it and bury the old vanilla beans in canister of sugar to make vanilla sugar. Then I add fresh beans to the remaining liquid and top off with more vodka as needed.
To make your own vanilla, put a couple vanilla beans in a pint of vodka. You can split the beans first which, I think, intensifies the flavor. Let sit, shaking it once every week or so when you think of it. Will be ready to use in a couple of months -- less if you want a less intense flavor. Use as you would store-bought vanilla.
You can also vary the flavor by using other types of alcohol. Personally I prefer to use the highest proof vodka I can find. I used to use grain alcohol but it's not readily available here in VA anymore.
Here's a website that suggests other flavorings to try.
http://www.abigslice.com/extracts.html
source is David
|
|