Although its presence may now be considered commonplace within the kitchen, the history of the seemingly humble vanilla bean is as evocative as the taste it exudes.

The vanilla bean or vanilla pod as it is also known, has been traced back to the Pre-Columbian societies that occupied the geographical region now thought of as Mexico. The exact date these beans were discovered is impossible to determine, but it is known that civilizations such as the Aztecs and Totonacs regularly used them.

I have a collection of useful recipes using the vanilla bean. Find vanilla beans on the web, at health stores and in most supermarket stores in the baking isle. If making homemade vanilla as a gift allow 2 months for the entire process. It is worth the wait, and makes a wonderful gift in a pretty bottle.

Vanilla Extract

Ingredients

• 2 whole vanilla beans
  
• 1-1/2 cup vodka
  
• ½ cup water
  
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  

Directions

1. In a 3-cup glass container with a tight-fitting lid, combine the vanilla beans with the vodka. Cap and allow to sit at room temperature for 3 weeks.
   
2. Remove the beans and strain liquid through a doubled layer of cheesecloth into a bowl
   
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar over medium heat
   
4. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved
   
5. Remove from heat and cool
   
6. Stir into vanilla mixture
   
7. Pour mixture into a bottle; cap and allow to sit at room temperature for 1 month