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What exactly is the flavor or taste of vanilla extract? Somehow, a tiny drop seems to make big difference, so it's kinda miracle I can't say what it tastes like, but after I add a single drop in my mocha, it tastes like what it should, unlike before.
Any by the way, I'm new to using vanilla extract, so am not sure how much to use, and what food to add it. Beside cookies (which I don't make), drinks, what else can I use it to enhance the flavor?
Instead of a cup, next time put a drop on your tongue - more than likely you will have a good idea as to what does it taste like?
Pure vanilla extract has a touch of alcohol. Soooooo....for insomnia, one of my favorite things to do is make a warm cup of milk with vanilla extract and artificial sweetener. Mmmmmm. The milk has melatonin and the vanilla has a touch of alcohol. It helps me to sleep.
I've heard that it's a comforting scent to put in some water on the stove for simmering, like when you are selling your house. You either bake cookies, or use that vanilla scent. Of course, I think it'd be easier & last longer to use the scented oils with sticks (what do you call those?).
How much vanilla are you drinking?!?
A drop or two of 35% alcohol vanilla extract won't give much of a buzz...
A drop or two of 35% alcohol vanilla extract won't give much of a buzz...
exactly what I'm thinking. Not going to help much for sleep IMHO.
I also agree about quality vanilla. Cheap stuff , imitation, is a waste of money. Just be sure to keep the lid on tight since it will evaporate otherwise.
I add it to pancakes, french toast, cakes, cookies, puddings and everything sweet. By itself it is bitter and not at all what it smells like.
When I was a child and a girlfriend was teaching me how to smoke cigarettes, she said to take a swig of vanilla extract and my mother wouldn't be able to smell smoke on my breath. The taste of the vanilla extract was vile and it didn't conceal anything.
exactly what I'm thinking. Not going to help much for sleep IMHO.
I also agree about quality vanilla. Cheap stuff , imitation, is a waste of money. Just be sure to keep the lid on tight since it will evaporate otherwise.
I add it to pancakes, french toast, cakes, cookies, puddings and everything sweet. By itself it is bitter and not at all what it smells like.
The reason is that artificial vanillin is chemically the same as the vanillin in real vanilla. But natural vanilla, especially quality vanilla, has so many other compounds that add to the richness of the flavor.
Why do people use artificial vanillin?
Vanillin = $6 a pound
Vanilla beans = $50+ a pound
Vanilla is second only to saffron as far as cost goes.
The most frugal way to obtain vanilla extract is to order your beans on-line, where they're a steal compared to the grocery store, and make it at home, using either vodka or rum. I prefer vodka. It's the easiest thing in the world, and the taste is head and shoulders above the commercial brands. I use it in all sorts of stuff, but the simplest is just a few drops in a mug of warm milk before bed. Heaven!
Only vodka or rum? What about red wine or other wines?
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I can't say what it tastes like, but after I add a single drop in my mocha, it tastes like what it should, unlike before. 
