Vanilla Beans (Whole)

$7.50

In stock

Product Description

The vanilla bean, or pod, is the long slender fruit of the vanilla orchid. Each pod contains thousands of seeds. It is one of the most expensive spices due to its complex and long curing process, particularly due to the orchid only flowering once per year. Vanilla beans are used in most of the world's cuisines. They are the purest and most potent form of vanilla and can be reused to steep in the liquid until losing their flavour, or the seeds inside can be scraped out and the pod discarded. It has a floral aroma and a smooth caramel flavor. The best beans are air-dried to a moisture content of 25-30%. Other products: vanilla sugar.
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Culinary Notes:

Vanilla beans are grown in the equatorial regions of the world, there are many varieties and they come in many grades and sizes. Choosing the right quality vanilla bean will make a lot of difference to the flavor of your dish. We only select grade A - This commonly known as Prime or Gourmet vanilla beans. These beans are of a dark color with 25-30% moisture content and more attractive than Grade B. They are or should in most cases be used for cooking and top chefs prefer them. Grade B vanilla beans are much drier and brittle to touch. These beans are generally used to make vanilla extract Vanilla beans are commonly used in sweet dishes, however, they can be also used in savory dishes such as lobster entrees.

Health Benefits:

Vanilla contains essentials oils, vitamins, and minerals. It contains small amounts of B-complex, niacin, pantothenic acid, thiamin, riboflavin, and vitamin B-6. These vitamins help the nervous system function and regulating body metabolism. Vanilla also contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, iron, and zinc.

Origin:

Vanilla beans are derived from the orchid plant of the genus Vanilla. The word vanilla comes from the Spanish word "vaina" which translates to the little pod. This vanilla ‘fruit' was originally grown in Mesoamerica, part of which is where Mexico is located today. It was not until 1841 when they learned the art of hand pollinating that vanilla production was able to spread to other equatorial regions of the world. Our vanilla beans are sourced from Tahiti - other countries where they are grown include Papua New Guinea, Central America, Indonesia, Mexico, madacasgar and West Indies

Ingredients:

  • 100% dried Whole Vanilla Beans
  • Packed in Australia from 100% imported products

Country of Origin

Product of Tahiti

Other Names:

Vanilla Bean, Vanilla Pod, Vanilla Extract, Vanilla planifolia, Fructus Vanillae, Vanille (French & German), Vaniglia (Italian), Vainilla(Spanish)

How to Use:

  • Open the bean lengthwise and scrape out the tiny seeds to add to any variety of sweet treats
  • Cook your dishes with the entire pod and remove before serving
  • Add a whole Vanilla Bean to a steeping liquid to infuse the flavor (some ideas include stewing fruit or infusing milk for custard)
  • Add a vanilla pod into your sugar jar for a beautiful vanilla flavor and to keep your sugar aromatically fresh

Recipe/Product Links:

braised-beef-cheeks-with-vanilla

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are vanilla beans so expensive?

Vanilla comes from Orchid. These flowers are hand-pollinated and hard to grow. It is grown in Madagascar that has been hit by multiple storms in the last few years. Thus, its supply is deficient.

2. Can you grow vanilla beans at home?

Anyone who has the right equipment and patience can grow vanilla at home. Vanilla grows best in a room or near a sunny window with bright indirect sunlight.

3. How long do vanilla beans last?

Vanilla Beans can't last forever. They can last anywhere from six months to three years if stored properly. But the aroma, taste, and texture can be diminished after a year.

4. How quickly should vanilla beans be used?

Vanilla beans should be used within a few weeks after opening the package as it dries out over time. If it comes in a vacuum-sealed package, you can keep it for six months.

5. How can you tell if vanilla beans are bad?

Vanilla beans will turn brittle and dry up. The beans can turn mouldy if not stored in a dry place. However, don’t confuse frosty crystals on the surface with moulds.

6. Where can I buy Vanilla Bean Whole?

You can easily find Vanilla Bean Whole in the nearest grocery store or simply order it online from our website.

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