More and more people are buying real vanilla pods to use in their cooking rather than use various kinds of vanilla essences, some of which have no real vanilla in them at all. Though the price has come down in the last few years here's a way to get further value out of your vanilla pods.
Instead of throwing away the pods once you have scraped out the seeds put them into an airtight jar and cover with caster sugar (bakers sugar). In a week or two the sugar takes on a lovely vanilla flavour.
I like to use this vanilla sugar when I make custard to make the most wonderful deluxe custard.
*Even if the vanilla pods have been cooked in the sauce, just wash them well in very hot water and dry well on paper towels for several hours before adding them to the sugar.
Shipscook
Great idea will certainly try that