Vanilla Extract at Home?

I was skeptical when I watched the Barefoot Contessa program and Ina Garten spoke about making homemade Vanilla Extract .  I realize she can do no wrong in my kitchen, but this seemed outside the realm of possibility.

Undaunted, Big Guy bought Madagascar vanilla beans and a bottle of good vodka.  We placed the beans in a jar and filled it with vodka.  We waited the thirty days before opening the bottle and giving it a try.  OMG!  It was so delicious and much more fragrant than our store-bought bottle. 

It is now a go to in our kitchen and makes a great gift for your baking friends.  The best part is you can just refill the bottle with vodka for more terrific extract in another thirty days.  No refrigeration and no hassle!

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