Homemade vanilla extract

How to make it

1. 

   1

   Split the beans

   Slice each bean lengthwise, leaving 1 in joined at one end. You'll see the tiny seeds inside.

2. 

   2

   Fill the bottles

   Put 6 beans in each bottle. Trim them if they're taller than the bottle.

3. 

   3

   Pour in the vodka

   Funnel vodka into each bottle until the beans are fully covered.

4. 

   4

   Cap and label

   Close tightly and label with today's date. Write 'ready after' with a date 8 weeks out.

5. 

   5

   Shake weekly

   Store in a dark cupboard and give each bottle a shake once a week. It turns deep amber as it goes.

6. 

   6

   Gift it

   Tie on a tag that says to top it up with vodka as it's used. The beans keep giving for a year or more.