How to Make Homemade Vanilla
with
Jonathon Stewart
Making homemade vanilla is as easy as it gets, and will take the flavor in your desserts or cocktails that call for vanilla extract to a whole new level. Learn how to make vanilla from scratch.
Transcript: How to Make Homemade Vanilla
Hi! I'm Jonathon Stewart for About.com Food with today's 90 Second Quick Tip. Were you one of those unfortunate souls that was made fun of as a kid because your favorite flavor was vanilla? Join the club. But after tasting anything made with this amazing homemade vanilla, you'll be watching all of those chocolate-eating grins vanish in awe. Check it out.Where Does Vanilla Come From?
Vanilla is one of the most expensive spices in the world, and it's no surprise. The vanilla bean is actually the fruit of an American orchid species, which only flowers for one day a year - and must be pollinated on that day in order to grow.Buying Vanilla Beans
Fortunately you can find vanilla beans in grocery stores that carry organic foods, for about a couple dollars a bean. Today we're just going to use just two - either the bourbon or Tahitian variety is fine - and about a half-pint of good quality vodka.Mix Homemade Vanilla Ingredients
Start by slicing your vanilla beans from top to bottom with a paring knife, exposing the seeds inside. Next, using a small jar or other glass container, fill it with about eight ounces of vodka and add the beans.Cap, cork, or screw on the lid, and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Vodka allows the flavor of the vanilla to shine through the best, but you could also try using brandy, rum, or other liquors as well.
Allow the Vanilla to Sit
For this next step, remember the 3-3-30 rule: place your container in a dark area to sit for about three weeks, shaking every three days, again for about 30 seconds, though it's best to leave it for even longer - the longer it sits, the more intense the flavor.Reuse the Vanilla Beans
When the time's up, you can use your vanilla to create amazing cocktails, or in any recipe that calls for vanilla extract. You can also replace any liquid you use with additional vodka, because the beans hold their flavor for up to several months. Good beans, huh?Sweeten the Vanilla
If you prefer it a bit sweeter, you can always whip up a batch of simple syrup by boiling equal parts sugar and water, and diluting your vanilla. But yeah, exactly. Who wants to dilute their delicious homemade vanilla?Thanks for watching! To learn more, visit us on the Web at food.about.com.