| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 304 | 0g | 0g | 82g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 82g | 0g | 0.1g | 0.01g |
If there’s one recipe that delights my Nebraska-rooted taste buds and soothes my soul, it’s Vanilla Infused Honey. A simple creation, yet infused with a complexity that truly reflects the rich, warm essence of the Midwest. This honey is not only a sublime addition to any dish wanting a hint of sweetness, but also carries the gem of splendid health perks.
The echo of my home’s Farm-to-table Spirit
Being born and raised in Nebraska, I’ve always cherished the farm-to-table concept. The ingredients in Vanilla Infused Honey posses that same freshness and quality to echo my innate love for wholesome, homegrown produce. In fact, I choose only the best local honey, enriched by the feral flora and buzzing bees of our beloved homeland. The whole vanilla beans, with their aroma as inviting as a country morning, provides a rich depth to the honey. The resulting flavor, a creamy sweetness mixed with a touch of exotic decadence, quite similar to the comforting dishes I grew up with like corn casserole or a hearty stew.
Health benefits as sweet as the Honey itself
The Vanilla Infused Honey is more than just its undeniable deliciousness. It’s loaded with numerous health benefits as well. Honey is renowned for its antioxidant properties, and acts as a natural defense against numerous ailments. It’s also a healthier alternative to processed sugars, making your dishes sweet while taking care of your health. Vanilla isn’t just about the enchanting aroma; it’s packed with antioxidants as well, aiding in cellular repair and protection.
Now, where can you use this delightful Vanilla Infused Honey? In an eclectic array of sweet and savory recipes! Drizzle it on warm, buttered pancakes, add it into baked goods for a distinct sweetness, or pair it with creamy cheese varieties. It’s even great in salad dressings or as a glaze for meats. So many dishes such as a warm bowl of oatmeal, a slice of freshly-baked bread or a tart, can be taken to a whole new level with a touch of this honey.
Vanilla Infused Honey embodies my love for Midwestern comfort in a jar. Its divine taste, and the sweet reminiscence of my homeland, makes it my go-to choice for an ingredient that not just enriches a recipe but also adds a layer of rich, nostalgic flavor. When you taste it, every mouthful will resonate with the soulful charm of the Midwest.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of high-quality, local honey
- 2 whole vanilla beans
- 6 sterilized glass jars with lids (4 oz size)
Method
Step One
Start by sterilizing your glass jars and lids. This can be done by boiling for 10 minutes or using a sterilizing solution. This is important to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life.
Step Two
Using a sharp knife, split each vanilla bean down the middle lengthwise. Do not remove the tiny seeds inside as these are rich in flavour.
Step Three
In a saucepan, pour the two cups of honey and add the split vanilla beans along with the seeds scraped from inside.
Step Four
Heat the honey and vanilla mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Make sure to stir frequently so the honey won’t burn. Let it simmer for around 10 minutes until the vanilla infuses the honey completely.
Step Five
After the honey has simmered, take the saucepan off the heat source and let it cool for a while. Once it is at a manageable temperature, strain the mixture to remove the vanilla pod and seeds leaving only the infused honey.
Step Six
Now pour the infused honey into your sterilized glass jars using a clean funnel or a ladle and seal the jars with their lids.
Step Seven
Finally, store your jars in a cool dark place. They can keep for up to a year. The Vanilla infused honey can be used to sweeten tea, toast, pancakes or anything you want to add a special flavour too. Enjoy!
