Homemade Vanilla Extract

Did you know it is so easy to make your own vanilla? I have always bought the cheapest imitation stuff. My sister imports hers from Mexico. This is a better (than the first) and cheaper(than the second) option to either. It takes awhile, so start now!

You will need some vanilla beans and vodka and a dark jar with a lid or a clear jar with a lid and a place to hide it.

Take the beans and slit them lengthwise top to bottom on one side. Pour the vodka in the jar, add the beans, give it a shake and screw the lid on. Let it infuse in the dark at least 3 months, but 6-12 is better. (thats why you should start now) Then repeat with a new batch in a couple of weeks or months. When you begin using the vanilla, just add more vodka to the jar and shake it up. Thats it!