Vanilla Bean

The vanilla bean is the fruit of a tropical orchid of the genus Vanilla, native to Mexico. After harvesting, it undergoes a lengthy process of fermentation and drying, which gives it its characteristic dark color and intense aroma. The tiny seeds inside the pod carry the strong vanilla flavor and are used in creams, ice creams, puddings, batters, and custards. The pod itself can be used to infuse milk, sugar, or alcohol with flavor. Quality beans should be flexible, shiny, and slightly oily to the touch. Compared to extracts or vanilla sugar, they provide the most authentic and richest flavor.