Vanilla bean refers to the dried seed pod of the vanilla plant which belongs to the orchid family. The bean is a long, slim, black pod with various culinary uses. Although more than 120 varieties of the plant exist, only 2 species are useful for culinary purposes. These are the Bourbon and Tahitian varieties. However, the aromatic scent of the bean is also widely used in cosmetics and candles. The beans are harvested while still fresh and green to ensure a strong flavor and aroma. They contain thousands of tiny seeds. The seed pod actually contains a stronger flavor than the seeds.
Vanilla Products
Vanilla extract is obtained by soaking the bean in a solution of alcohol and water. The solution is left to mature for several months. The resultant dark liquid is then strained off. It bears a rich aroma and flavor. The extract is the most widely used form of the vanilla plant. However, it is not ideal for use in hot liquids. The high temperatures dissipate the alcohol and most of the vanilla flavor. Beans can be used in whole form or can be ground into a fine powder. Ground beans yield one of the strongest vanilla flavors when used in food. Vanilla paste is made from ground beans and extract mixed together. Vanilla sugar is produced when a vanilla bean is buried in a sugar container for about a week. The vanilla flavor from the bean permeates the sugar to create a delightfully flavored sugar.
How to Use the Vanilla Bean
- Lay the bean on a flat surface. Cut it open with a knife along the length. As you spread the bean open, several thousand tiny seeds become evident. Once cut open and placed in a liquid, the bean yields a strong flavor. Due to its strong flavor, you can use the bean several times before you discard.
- You may also choose to extract the seeds from the pods then use the bean separately. Even after you’ve used the beans several times, they still retain their flavor. Rinse in plain water and allow them to dry. You can then place the dried beans in a sugar or coffee jar where they’ll produce vanilla fragrance for a reasonable period.
- If cooking a sauce, place the open pods in the sauce to obtain a strong vanilla flavor. Once the sauce is cooked, scoop the pod, rinse and dry well. It can still be used to add flavor to other food items.
- The beans can also be ground into a powder. You can use a coffee grinder to grind the beans. The powder can be used to flavor various food items.
- If you’re to get the most out of the beans, it is best to slice them when ready to use. Don’t slice then store. The flavor dissipates quickly.
Storing Vanilla Beans
It is best to store the beans in an airtight container. This helps to preserve the flavor for longer. Keep the container in a cool, dark place. Do not store in the refrigerator as the beans are likely to become brittle and crystallize.
Culinary Uses
- Cakes
- Cookies
- Ice cream
- Candy
- Sauces
- Syrups
- Sea foods
- Poultry
- Vegetables
- Beverages, both hot and cold
- Wine
