Vanilla Extract

2 vanilla beans � cut in half, lengthwise and chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
1/2 cup, brandy (good quality, for best flavor)
1/4 cup, water

Combine ingredients in a half-pint glass jar (such as a Mason jar) and set aside in a cool dark place to steep for at least 3 days. Will keep up to one year, stored in a cool, dark place.

MAKES ABOUT 3/4 CUP