Did You Know?
Vanilla is the only fruit-producing orchid; it was first discovered by the Totonac people of Mexico and brought to Europe by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.
Overview
Mexico · year-round · spices
Vanilla beans are the cured seed pods of the Vanilla planifolia orchid — one of the most complex flavors in the culinary world, with over 200 aroma compounds.
Mexico
Origin
year-round
Season
Easy
Difficulty
spices
Category
Flavor Profile
Floralcreamysweetcomplex
Storage Tips
Wrap tightly in wax paper or plastic and store in an airtight container at room temperature; keeps for up to 2 years.
Photo Gallery
How to Cook with Vanilla Bean
Recipes, pairings, substitutes, and professional tips
Cooking Tips
Split pod lengthwise and scrape seeds for maximum flavor; add the pod to cream or milk while heating; store used pods in sugar to make vanilla sugar.
Best Pairings
chocolatecreamcaramelcoffeeberriescitrus
Substitutes
Vanilla extract (1 tsp per bean), vanilla paste, or vanilla powder
Nutrition & Health Benefits
The nutritional profile and health properties of Vanilla Bean
Nutrition Highlights
calories
288 kcal per 100g (dry)
key_nutrients
Vanillin, trace minerals, antioxidants, small amounts of calcium and potassium
Quick Facts
Categoryspices
OriginMexico
Seasonyear-round
DifficultyEasy
Health Benefits
Antioxidant vanillin; may reduce inflammation; calming aroma shown to reduce anxiety; antidepressant properties.
Vanilla Bean Photos
5 photos showcasing Vanilla Bean in its many forms
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Vanilla Bean
spices
OriginMexico
Seasonyear-round
DifficultyEasy
Flavor Notes
Floralcreamysweetcomplex
Shop This Ingredient
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Pairs Well With
chocolatecreamcaramelcoffeeberriescitrus
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