Organic Vanilla Bean

Our Organic Vanilla Beans produce the sweetly spicy, delicate aroma and flavor that can only be found in quality vanilla. It a very popular flavoring used in baking, perfumes, and aromatherapy. Independent 3rd Party Certifications: Organic, Gluten Free, Non-GMO, Kosher, Vegan Using at Home A few delights enhanced by our vanilla bean include crème brûlée, tarts, custards, pastry cream, cookies, cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, homemade vanilla extract, and vanilla sugar.  To use a vanilla bean, you need to split it in two, lengthwise, with a knife. This exposes the tiny black seeds and oils inside. Scrape the pod with the non-sharpened side of the knife to retrieve the vanilla flavoring. The pods can also be used by adding them into a small bottle of vodka (or other alcohol) and allowing it to soak. After a few weeks, the flavor will be extracted into the liquid which can then be used the same way as regular vanilla extracts. You can leave the beans in the bottle and continue to add vodka as it runs low. Health While the ancient Mayans believed that adding vanilla to various drinks worked as an aphrodisiac there is no solid evidence of this. Being used in many desert foods and perfumes meant it would lift the spirits and create a sense of contentment. Benefits Our all-natural vanilla beans are directly sourced to ensure freshness and feature no harsh chemical processing. In aromatherapy, the scent is believed to be very comforting and vanilla is used to encourage relaxation and happiness. History Vanilla beans are the seedpods of certain orchids that require specific growing conditions and are labor-intensive to produce. They grow on vines that can reach up to 30 feet long, climbing and winding around trees. The beans originated in what is now Mexico and Guatemala, cultivated by the ancient Totonac people, and given as tribute to the conquering Aztecs. Today much of the vanilla comes from Madagascar and is known as "bourbon vanilla". The vanilla orchids must be pollinated by hummingbirds or a specific species of bee in order to produce the coveted pods known as vanilla beans, but much of the commercial vanilla sold today is hand-pollinated resulting in its higher price. Much of the vanilla you see and taste comes from artificial versions. Ingredients: Organic Vanilla Bean