Seasonal Blend

September can be the last gasp of Summer, the first taste of Autumn or something in between. To make the most of whichever September you get, consider vanilla as the flavor to gracefully meld seasonal flavors. Vanilla’s complex flavor make up gives it a versatility that few home cooks use to its full potential. A good way to experiment with vanilla beyond baking is make a simple vanilla oil with a ½ cup of canola oil and a teaspoon of quality vanilla extract for use on grilled vegetables or fruit. From there, try vanilla vinaigrette with seafood or a mix of summer and fall vegetables. Two vanillas makers worthy of your money are Nielsen-Massey, with over 100 years making vanilla and other extract products and Madécasse, a relative new comer who specializes in sustainable products from Madagascar. Nielsen-Massey is more accessible with availability at gourmet stores chains such as William Sonoma and Sur La Table. Neighborhood specialty and independent gourmet stores are where to find Madécasse Vanilla and it is worth the hunt. Or you can go for the sure thing and buy Madécasse Vanilla products online. (Throw some dark chocolate bars in the cart while you are there, they make one of the best tasting organic dark chocolate bars around.)