Vanilla Extract

Kitchen makeover is underway!

New paint.  New floor.  New cupboards.  New countertop.

Truth be told, my old kitchen was... not so pretty.  Plain.  Sterile.  Not inviting.

I'm hoping that changes this time around.  

One thing I'm hoping to accomplish in the next few weeks while the men go to town in my woman-cave is to work on some decorations and crafts to adorn my new space.  After a trip to the craft store, I arrived home with a collection of large and small apothecary jars for my latest project.  I'm hoping to create my own collection of infused oils and extracts.  I love the look of natural decorations that also serve a purpose.

I've made Habanero Extract before for making sauces and chilis, but now I'm trying out some vanilla extract.  Mostly because I love the taste of vanilla, but hate the price of vanilla beans.  

Making your own extract also gives you a way better flavor than store-bought.  I can't describe it, so you'll just have to take my word for it.

Super easy.  Super worth it.

And so pretty.  I can't wait to display it in my new kitchen!



Vanilla Extract

3-4 Vanilla Beans
1 cup grain alcohol


Combine the pureed habaneros and grain alcohol.  Strain through a very fine strainer.

Pour the mixture into an airtight pint jar and seal.  Let the mixture sit in a dry, dark place for 4-6 weeks before use.