How to Make Vanilla Extract
As we've already noticed, we live in a world where nothing is what it seems. The same goes for vanilla extract... most extracts sold in stores are actually VANILLIN, a substance obtained from wood waste in the paper industry. This is produced commercially because it costs much less than real vanilla extract, making it accessible to everyone. Real vanilla extract is much more expensive because it's obtained from certain orchid species.
You can make your own vanilla extract at home - good, real, and affordable - all you need is alcohol, vanilla beans... and some patience. Once made, this extract will last a lifetime.
Obviously, the quality of the extract depends on the quality of the vanilla beans. Higher quality beans result in more intense flavor. You can recognize a quality vanilla bean by its smell - it should have a very strong aroma and feel oily when you hold it.
Given that Easter is approaching, you can prepare the extract now - there's still time! And if you store it in elegant bottles, you can give them as gifts to friends.
3-6 vanilla beans/pods (depending on budget - the more, the better)
250ml quality vodka (or rum, whiskey if you want additional flavors)
- Pour the alcohol into a clean bottle with a tight screw cap.
- Split the vanilla pods lengthwise and insert them into the bottle.
- Seal the bottle tightly and store in a dark, cool place (like a pantry). Shake the bottle daily during the first week. After that, shake it once a week.
- The extract can be used after 2 months, but the full aroma develops after 6 months. The extract will become darker and darker until almost black.
* You'll see small bits and pieces of vanilla pod in the extract - this is normal. If it bothers you when using it, strain through cheesecloth or a paper coffee filter. - Don't worry about the alcohol - you'll only use 1-2 teaspoons of extract in desserts, so the amount of alcohol is minimal, and it evaporates during baking anyway. For unbaked desserts, vodka has no flavor, so it won't affect the final taste.
- The extract has no expiration date.
Why did I say this extract will last a lifetime? Because you can keep replenishing it with minimal investment:
- Whenever you use the extract and the level drops below covering the beans, top up with more alcohol.
- Every few months, when you have a vanilla pod whose seeds you've used for desserts, don't throw it away - add it to the bottle. Don't forget to shake occasionally.
First day
After 2 months
