Buying Guide for Vanilla Beans
Vanilla beans are a popular flavoring for desserts, baked goods, and beverages. They are also available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but commonly used ones are the large, flat varieties. While the flavor of vanilla beans is somewhat similar to that of vanilla extract, the beans themselves add a bold and distinctive flavor to your recipes.
Vanilla beans are used to make vanilla extract. The beans are grown on plants that are partially shade-grown and are harvested later in the season when the pods are fully mature. It is often used in baking and cooking, but more often it is ground into a paste, which is then mixed into beverages, especially coffee.
Benefits of Vanilla Beans
Antioxidants
Some of the components in vanilla beans have antioxidant properties, which means they protect cells from harm. This makes them quite beneficial for your health. Vanillin and vanillic acid, two of vanilla's phenolic plant components, seem to have antioxidant properties.
Flavour
Vanilla beans are famous for their amazing flavors. Due to their strong and pleasant aroma, they are used in many parts of the world. Vanilla beans are used for cooking and baking. They are natural and smell great making them a must-have in your kitchen.
Versatile
There are many dishes with vanilla beans, including fast bread, cakes, cookies, granola, and more. Vanilla bean powder is good for smoothies, coffee beverages, baked goods like cakes and cookies, pancakes, and waffles.
Aphrodisiac
Enhancing brain chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin can boost libido along with health benefits. A happy mood leads to healthier love life. As a result, aphrodisiacs like chocolate and vanilla have been used for centuries.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Vanilla Beans
Origin
All vanilla beans come from Mexico, but the plant has been transported to and grown in several locations. The characteristics of these growing areas, such as the climate and soil quality, have influenced the evolution of each variety over time. Consequently, vanilla beans from different areas will differ in terms of flavor, appearance, and scent.
Type
Vanilla orchids come in two varieties: Planifolia and Tahitensis. Planifolia is the more common and well-known vanilla bean. It has a strong, pungent aroma and is frequently described as earthy. The Tahitensis is thought to be sweeter and milder. So you should go for what suits your preferences.
Physical Features
It is best to buy vanilla beans that are plump and malleable at the market. Make sure the beans are thick, somewhat spongy, and not brittle when squeezed. If possible, smell the scent; it should be undeniably vanilla and strong.
Quality
When buying vanilla beans, you must not overlook quality. They are classified as 'Grade A' or 'Grade B' vanilla beans. The difference is in the amount of moisture in the air. Chefs favour Grade A for the additional moisture in the bean. Grade B beans taste is more intense since the beans have a lower moisture level.
Conclusion
You can buy vanilla beans as a gift, food ingredient, or just as a hobby to help with cooking. They're a very interesting thing to have, and they should definitely be part of your kitchen collection. The Vanilla Beans are delivered in a well-mannered manner. The Vanilla Beans are of good quality and taste. The Vanilla Beans can be stored and maintained in a proper way. To know more about the leading vanilla beans brands, head over to our featured section on top. We review and recommend the best only based on origin, quality, and taste.
