How to make vanilla extract

Ingredients:

Vanilla extract

• 1 clean glass jar or bottle (480 ml) with a tight-fitting lid
• 480 ml of vodka
• 5 vanilla pods

Almonds with vanilla extract

• 1 beaten egg white
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups whole almonds
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Preparation:

1. Vanilla extract

   
   Using a sharp knife, split the vanilla bean lengthwise to expose the seeds. Place the bean in a jar or bottle and fill with vodka. Close the jar, shake it a few times, and store in a cool, dark place. Let the jar sit for 6-8 weeks, shaking it 1-2 times a week. The mixture will darken over time. When the extract begins to reduce in volume, add more vodka and shake. Also, whenever you use a vanilla bean, don't hesitate to return it to the jar after use. This will saturate the vanilla extract, making it last almost forever.

2. Vanilla sugar

   
   Split 2 vanilla beans and scrape out the seeds into an airtight container with 3 cups of granulated sugar. Coat the pods with sugar and seal tightly. Let the sugar sit for 2 weeks. Use as you would regular granulated sugar.

3. Vanilla Almond

   
   Preheat oven to 150°C. Whisk the egg whites with vanilla extract, add the almonds, and mix well. Combine the sugar, salt, and cinnamon and stir into the mixture. Arrange in a single layer on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 150°C for 20 minutes. Remove and cool on parchment paper, separating the nuts.