Vanilla is the fruit of a climbing orchid whose aroma was already valued in pre-Columbian Mexico.
Its aroma has a great affinity for chocolate, coffee and is delicious when mixed with dairy products.
To enjoy its delicate flavour, the pod must be opened lengthwise and cooked in milk or soaked in any other liquid so that the seeds release their aroma.
It is the queen of pastry aromas. Use it in home-made desserts of all kinds like cookies, cakes, creams, crème caramels, custards, ice creams, sweet drinks or liqueurs and cocktails. Also in salad recipes, like scrambled eggs with vanilla. Even for tomato sauce or to give a special touch to meat or white fish!
Natural vanilla comes in the form of shiny black sticks called “branches” or “pods” about 15 cm long. If they can be wound around a finger without breaking, it’s a sign that they are not dry.
The price of natural vanilla is due to the meticulous work its production involves, but with a small amount its flavour goes a long way.
