COGNAC VANILLA

COGNAC VANILLA
I use two kinds of vanilla.  One is La Vencedora Mexican vanilla which is the most fragrant.  This homemade Vanilla Extract is the one to use when a more complex or mysterious Vanilla flavor is welcome. 

Cut 6 vanilla beans in half lengthwise.
Cut the halves into short lengths, about half an inch or less.
Place the pieces (with the seeds) in a fifth (750 ml.) of Cognac or brandy and close it tightly.
Shake the bottle every once in a while to free the seeds from the pods.
Will keep 3-4 years (you can refill it, but not more than three times).

It will always smell predominately of spirits, but the vanilla becomes gloriously alive when it comes in contact with heat.