The question:
Dear Chef Mom: Could you please help me find a recipe for homemade vanilla extract? Thank you! - Denise
Chef Mom says:
Vanilla, often considered the "plain Jane" ice cream flavor, actually has a very exotic origin! Vanilla extract is derived from the seed pods of the vanilla orchid. Through a lengthy process, the seed pods (often called "beans" because of their resemblance to string beans) are dried, and then, usually with alcohol, an extract is made.
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Making your own homemade vanilla extract is quite simple -- you need the vanilla seed pods (you can buy them online at Glenbrook Farms Herbs and Such) and liquor, such as vodka.
Cheri Sicard of Fabulous Foods suggests this technique:
You need:
2 vanilla beans, cut lengthwise
3/4 cup vodka
Put the vanilla beans in a small half-pint jar and cover with vodka. Set aside to steep for 3-4 weeks. Keeping the beans in the jar, you may use this homemade blend like any other vanilla extract. When the liquid gets below the beans, just add more vodka.
Cheri notes that you can usually get three or four bottles of extract from the two vanilla beans. If you choose, add sugar to the extract to soften the flavor of the alcohol.
Vanilla adds a delicious aroma and taste to many foods, including ice cream and baked goods. I love to use it in waffle and pancake batter, and find that it makes them extra-flavorful.
