The Laughing Wolf

Food Treats

I am going to do a two-fer on food this week because these are so quick and easy to do. One is a delicious treat for those who like mushrooms, and the second is a frugal way to get the best vanilla you will ever have for cooking.

Marinated Mushrooms. Go get jars of whole button mushrooms, at least 2-3. Get 2 bottles of Ken's Country French dressing (or spicy french dressing of your choice). Open and drain mushrooms, and put into a sealable container. Pour dressing over them to cover, seal, and refrigerate overnight. This is a great snack, and a tasty and colourful dish for a party.

Vanilla. Go get a 750ml bottle of good vodka (I used Luksusowa Polish potato vodka) and two good vanilla beans. Yes, you want good beans, something like Madagascar Bourbon beans. Place beans in vodka, reseal bottle tightly, and then store in a cool dark place (wine cellar, bottom drawer of desk, closet, etc.) for at least six weeks. It will never get as dark as store-bought because there are no colours or other stuff added. Use just as you would store-bought, but because the flavor is so much better you will find you can and will use it elsewhere. I just used a small amount in my Scott's Porridge Oats this morning in place of cinnamon and it was wonderful. Should last six months or so.

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