Making a Vanilla Bean Tincture

To make a vanilla bean tincture, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:
- 2-4-6 whole vanilla beans
- 1 cup (240 ml) of high-proof alcohol, like vodka, rum, or bourbon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vanilla Beans:
- Split each vanilla bean lengthwise using a sharp knife to expose the seeds inside.
- Optionally, cut the beans into smaller pieces to fit better in your container and to increase the surface area for infusion.

2. Combine with Alcohol:
- Place the prepared vanilla beans into a clean, sterilized glass jar or bottle.
- Pour the alcohol over the beans, ensuring they are fully submerged.

3. Seal and Store:
- Seal the jar tightly with a lid.
- Store it in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry. To dramatically speed up the infusion process, place the jar in a freezer.

4. Infusion Time:
- Let the mixture infuse for at least 6-8 weeks, shaking the jar gently every few days.
- The longer it sits, the more intense the flavor will become. You can leave it for several months if you desire a stronger tincture.

5. Strain and Bottle:
- Once the tincture has reached your desired strength, strain out the vanilla beans using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Pour the tincture into a clean, dark glass bottle for storage.

Usage:
- Use your homemade vanilla tincture in baking, desserts, cocktails, or any recipe that calls for vanilla extract. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place where it will keep indefinitely.