Vanilla pods are full of volatile flavor compounds that are worth using after the beans have been removed! Some suggestions for using vanilla pods:

Vanilla sugar – store table sugar in a jar with a vanilla pod. So good in coffee.

Vanilla extract – store a small amount of rum or vodka in a dark glass jar with a vanilla pod for several months. You’ve just made vanilla extract.

Vanilla rum – fill a 750 mL – 1 L bottle with a few vanilla pods and good-quality rum. Store in a dark place for several weeks to months. Serve as an after-dinner digestif for a mental trip to the Caribbean. Cheers!

Dissolve 1/2 cup of sugar in the juice of 12 lemons. This concentrate will keep refrigerated for about a week.

Fill glasses with ice, then 1/4 full with the sweetened lemon juice. Top with still or sparkling water. Garnish with mint, if desired.

Cheers