RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING

Vanilla Bean

Vanilla beans are the seed pods of the vanilla orchid, a flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America, belonging to the family Orchidaceae. These thin, elongated pods are known for their intense flavor and enticing aroma. Rich, warm, and sweet, vanilla is a popular ingredient in cooking, baking, and perfumery. It is the second most expensive spice in the world due to its laborious cultivation process, making it a valuable and sought-after commodity. In the culinary world, the use of vanilla beans extends beyond just desserts, as they add depth and warmth to savory dishes as well. To use a vanilla bean, simply slice it lengthwise and scrape the tiny seeds out with the tip of the knife. These seeds or "caviar" can be mixed into batters, custards, and syrups, while the spent pods can be used to infuse flavor into sugar, alcohol or dairy products, ensuring no part of this precious ingredient goes to waste.
#8
IN EXTRACTS
$28.35
AVG / OZ
vanilla bean
Vanilla Bean FAQ
Vanilla beans, with their sweet, rich flavor and intoxicating aroma, are a staple ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. They do demand a bit of understanding and careful handling. Most people make the mistake of only using the seeds and discarding the rest of the bean which is a waste considering their cost. The whole bean, specially the pod, is packed with flavor and can be used for infusions in liquids like milk, cream, or alcohol. To get the most out of your vanilla beans, split the pod open and scrape out the caviar. The caviar is what will give visual confirmation of the presence of vanilla in your dishes. The spent pods could be steeped in cream or milk for custard based desserts or sauces adding to the depth of taste. Vanilla beans have the power to transform the flavor of basic recipes giving them a gourmet twist. You can also add vanilla bean pods to sugar creating 'vanilla sugar' which enhances the taste and aroma of the dishes you'll use the sugar in. Last but not the least, the vanilla bean can be repurposed to make homemade vanilla extract. A word of caution not to overheat vanilla beans, as too much heat can cause it to lose its flavor. Coffee or spice grinders can also be used to grind the whole vanilla bean to add intense flavor to dishes.
How do I extract the seeds from a vanilla bean?
Can I use the whole vanilla bean?
Can I substitute vanilla extract for vanilla beans?
Why are my vanilla beans dry or hard?
Why is there a crystalline substance on my vanilla beans?
Can I use a spent vanilla bean?
How can I make homemade vanilla extract?
Can I grind the whole vanilla bean?
Why is vanilla so expensive?
Does overheating affects the vanilla flavor?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does vanilla bean expire?
Vanilla beans can last for up to two years if kept unopened and properly stored in a cool, dark and dry place. Once opened, vanilla beans should ideally be used within a month, although it's generally safe to use them up to three months. If you've made your own vanilla extract using the beans, this can last indefinitely if stored correctly. If you've opted to freeze your vanilla beans, they can retain their flavor for up to a year.
How do you tell if vanilla bean is bad?
A vanilla bean that's gone bad will be hard and dry instead of supple and pliant. It may also develop a moldy appearance, which would be a sure-fire sign that it needs to be discarded. Additionally, beans that have lost their intense aroma, or have an off smell, should not be used.
Tips for storing vanilla bean to extend shelf life
• Store vanilla beans in an airtight container or glass jar, away from light and heat sources. • Do not store vanilla beans in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to dry out and lose flavor. • To freeze vanilla beans, simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just remember to use them straight from the freezer as they lose their flavor quickly once thawed. • If you find you have an excess of beans and don't want to freeze them, consider making your own vanilla extract by soaking them in vodka. This will not only extend their life but also give you a ready supply of pure vanilla essence for baking needs.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code