How to Make Mexican Vanilla: A Delightful homemade Experience
Mexican vanilla is renowned for its rich, creamy flavor and is a staple in many recipes around the world. Unlike the vanilla extract commonly found in supermarkets, which is made from a synthetic substance, Mexican vanilla is made from the vanilla beans of the vanilla orchid, which are then fermented and aged to perfection. If you’re looking to add a touch of authentic Mexican vanilla to your dishes, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
1. Gather the Ingredients
To make Mexican vanilla, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 vanilla bean
– 1 cup of vodka or rum (alcohol is used to extract the flavor from the vanilla bean)
– A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
2. Prepare the Vanilla Bean
Start by splitting the vanilla bean lengthwise with a knife. Use the knife to scrape out the seeds from the inside of the bean. The seeds are what give the vanilla its distinct flavor, so make sure to get as much as possible.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Pour the alcohol into the glass jar. Add the vanilla bean and its seeds to the jar, ensuring that the bean is fully submerged in the alcohol. If the bean is not fully submerged, you can add a little more alcohol to cover it.
4. Ferment the Vanilla
Cover the jar with a tight-fitting lid and store it in a cool, dark place. Let the vanilla bean ferment in the alcohol for at least 6 months. The longer you let it ferment, the stronger the flavor will be. Some people choose to let it age for up to 2 years, depending on their preference.
5. Shake the Jar Regularly
To ensure that the vanilla extract is well-mixed, shake the jar every few days. This will help to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the alcohol.
6. Strain the Extract
After the vanilla has fermented for the desired amount of time, strain the extract through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. You can now use your homemade Mexican vanilla extract in your favorite recipes.
7. Store the Extract
Transfer the strained vanilla extract to a clean, airtight bottle. Store it in a cool, dark place, and it should last for several years.
By following these simple steps, you can create your own Mexican vanilla extract at home. Not only will you have a delicious, high-quality vanilla extract to use in your cooking, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you made it yourself. ¡Buena suerte!
