FOOD NEWS
Use Your Instant Pot For Quicker Homemade Vanilla Extract
BY KYLE GRACE MILLS
Homemade vanilla extract is cheaper to make and more flavorful than store-bought, but it takes two to three months at minimum for the extract to finish infusing.
You can speed up the process by placing jars of extract in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker with some water. With the help of heat, the infusion will finish much quicker.
After 45 minutes of cooking and an hour of natural release, you'll have vanilla extract that is ready for use. The best part is the flavor will only get better with time.
To begin, you'll need to add the right amount of vodka or another neutral alcohol, plus some high-quality vanilla beans, to four to six jars. Steal the jars very tightly.
Alcohol vapor is flammable, not to mention lost vapor can also diminish the flavor, so the jars must be airtight. Place them into your Instant Pot and pour in one cup of water.
Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, followed by natural decompression for an hour. Remove the hot jars with tongs and let cool for vanilla extract that will last for years.