Vanilla beans: what’s driving the craze?

Pure vanilla from whole beans has been popular since 1427 when the Aztecs discovered the exotic pods and used it to flavour drinks and medicines.
There are over 250 compounds that contribute to the dreamy flavour of pure vanillaThere are over 250 compounds that contribute to the dreamy flavour of pure vanilla
There are over 250 compounds that contribute to the dreamy flavour of pure vanilla

The Spanish explorer, Hernán Cortéz, introduced his countrymen to the pods and soon the vanilla obsession took hold of Europe and the Americas.

The decadent spice comes with an often eye-watering price tag yet people’s love of pure vanilla remains undiminished. Demand for vanilla outstrips supply, which has led to the scourge of imitation vanilla on our shelves. If you’re a purist spice fanatic, only natural vanilla will do.

So what drives the world’s pure vanilla craze?

Three reasons, quite simply.

Vanilla is simply delicious

Who knows why vanilla has become the poster child for anything boring and plain? The complex flavour sensation of pure vanilla ranges from woody, earthy and spicy to flowery, fruity, nutty and buttery. Pure vanilla essence makes the ordinary extraordinary.

There are over 250 compounds that contribute to the dreamy flavour of pure vanilla. And just like fine wine, the flavour profile is determined by the terroir of the area where they’re grown. Madagascar vanilla is distinctly rich and woody; Tahitian vanilla has strong notes of cherry and nutmeg; and Papua New Guinea vanilla is floral with hints of tropical fruit.

Vanilla is versatile

Vanilla is synonymous with desserts and pastries but just as popular for pimping up savoury dishes. Think shallots drenched in a rich vanilla beurre blanc, salad drizzled with a delicious French vanilla vinaigrette, smoked chicken topped with creamy vanilla aioli and organic lamb smothered in a spicy vanilla rub … the choice is endless.

Extract vanilla beans are not as plump or pretty as gourmet beans but they’re packed with more concentrated flavour which makes them perfect for homemade pure vanilla essence, paste and sugar. A splash of vanilla essence in a boozy cocktail or dollop of paste in a healthy smoothie or yummy milkshake is just one more way to pack the joy of vanilla into your life.

Outside of the culinary world, pure vanilla is used extensively in the manufacturing of organic skincare products, perfumes and medicines. A glug of pure vanilla essence in soaps and creams gives them a sensual and intoxicating quality.

Vanilla is loaded with health benefits

It’s quite astounding just how rich vanilla is in health benefits. Pure vanilla from whole pods is packed with anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatories and anti-depressant properties, to name but a few.

The vitamin and mineral-rich spice has been used for centuries to treat everything from stomach cramps, diarrhoea, sore throats and high cholesterol to acne, split ends, hair loss and skin rashes. And let’s not forget vanilla’s reputation of being a powerful aphrodisiac.

Remember, only pure vanilla will do to benefit from these incredible flavour and health properties. It’s really easy to make your own vanilla essence or paste and then you can be certain there are no harmful chemicals or additives in what you’re adding to your food, drinks or skincare products.

Visit Native Vanilla for more details

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