KAHLUA

Makes about 4 (1-Litre) bottles

I know that for some of the Kiwis and Aussies out there, it may be difficult to imagine, but I generally don't drink alcohol. I have an amazing uncle in Oregon who is an award-winning winemaker for Willamette Valley Vineyards, and yet I probably don't fully appreciate his work. As generous as he is, I usually just ask for him to bring "the sweet stuff" like rieslings, muskats and Müller-Thurgau...the rubbish of the wine world, but my favourites nonetheless. Beer usually gives me headaches with the first sip, so I never tried the "hair-o'-the-dog" remedy.

There are a few liqueurs I do enjoy on the odd special occasion...Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, etc.... My personal favourites are probably, Kahlua, Creme de Menthe, and good ole Irish Cream. I have recipes for all three, but I have so far only tried out this one. Creme de Menthe might be next, as I would love to post a 'Grasshopper Pie' or 'Grasshopper Shake' recipe at some stage too.

Kahlua and vanilla ice cream are made for each other too, so...let's get going on this one so we can try some! (It still takes about 4 weeks or so to fully develop the flavour though...bugger!)

INGREDIENTS:

7 Cups Water

1.5 Kilos (3.3 Lbs) Sugar (about 1 small bag)

1/2 Cup Instant Coffee (Dark Roast or Espresso Strength)

6 Tbsp Vanilla

4 Vanilla Beans, split (optional)

2 Bottles Vodka (2 Litres total)

DIRECTIONS:

First split vanilla beans and scrape the goo from inside each bean with a knife. Add the scrapings to a stock pot with the water, sugar and vanilla (extract/essence). Put the split beans into sterilized bottles for storage later.

Bring the pot of water, sugar and vanilla to a rolling boil for approximately 10 minutes (just long enough to dissolve all of the sugar).

Remove the pot from the heat and slowly stir in the instant coffee until all of the coffee is completely dissolved.

Now let it sit (covered) until it reaches room temperature.

Once completely cooled, add vodka and pour into bottles (with airtight seals) immediately.

These bottles are great for gifts, but please remember that it will take about 4 weeks to fully develop the flavour. For added smoothness, I understand a teaspoon of glycerin can be added, but I, personally, don't find it necessary.