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dan78
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Split vanilla beans lengthwise with a sharp knife or kitchen shears. Place them into a clear glass airtight jar (avoid cork lids), and fill with vodka until all beans are submerged.
Keep jar in cool dry spot that is easily visible (your plate cupboard works great!) and shake once a week or anytime you remember.
Optional pro tip: split and cut bean into segments before dropping them in jar. It's not as pretty vs the split whole bean, but it will speed up the process.
Do not freeze or refrigerate. Your vanilla extract is ready when you sniff it and odor has lost its liquor smell, approx 2-3 months. Shelf life is indefinite (using 70 proof liquor & proper storage). I suggest replacing the beans every 5 years or if any suspicious odors.