Vanilla
va·nil·la
I am instantly transported to vanilla heaven just thinking about this wonderful spice. So many tasty treats are produced using vanilla flavor like a latte, ice cream, chocolate and cake. The rich scent of vanilla is also found in many fragrances.
These all come from a vanilla plant which grows as a vine. It is a beautiful flowering plant and once the orchid flower is pollinated, a fruit is formed. This fruit contains small seeds, vanilla seeds. The plant then begins to form pods which are harvested to produce vanilla beans. This intense, complex and timely process make vanilla one of the world’s most expensive spices.
Origin:
The vanilla plant originated in Mexico in the 15th century and was used by the Aztecs to flavor a drink known as xocolatl which was made with cocoa beans, vanilla and honey. Today, vanilla is grown in many more parts of the world as Madagascar, Mexico, Indonesia, Tahiti and Papua New Guinea. Depending on which part of the world the vanilla beans come from, they vary in taste and intensity. Although it is a rigorous process, vanilla can be grown at home.
va·nil·la
I am instantly transported to vanilla heaven just thinking about this wonderful spice. So many tasty treats are produced using vanilla flavor like a latte, ice cream, chocolate and cake. The rich scent of vanilla is also found in many fragrances.
These all come from a vanilla plant which grows as a vine. It is a beautiful flowering plant and once the orchid flower is pollinated, a fruit is formed. This fruit contains small seeds, vanilla seeds. The plant then begins to form pods which are harvested to produce vanilla beans. This intense, complex and timely process make vanilla one of the world’s most expensive spices.
The vanilla plant originated in Mexico in the 15th century and was used by the Aztecs to flavor a drink known as xocolatl which was made with cocoa beans, vanilla and honey. Today, vanilla is grown in many more parts of the world as Madagascar, Mexico, Indonesia, Tahiti and Papua New Guinea. Depending on which part of the world the vanilla beans come from, they vary in taste and intensity. Although it is a rigorous process, vanilla can be grown at home.
Recipes:
Vanilla is most often used in extract and essence form. We also see vanilla being used in powder form, sugar or the whole pod. This premiere spice comes in many grades, qualities and flavorings.
Baking with vanilla is amazing – you can make cheesecakes, cakes, breads, custard, cream frosting, ice cream, cookies and whatever else your taste buds desire. Here’s a link to some of these mouth-watering recipes.
Many also make their own homemade Vanilla Extract with only
a few ingredients: vanilla beans, a cup of alcohol - bourbon, vodka, rum or
brandy - and a glass bottle. The quality of beans will have various results and
leave you with amazing tasting vanilla extract.
Vanilla is also used in many drinks as coffee, hot cocoa and liqueur.
Cures:
Vanilla has a very soothing scent and can be found in perfumes and oils to help calm you. It's also known to lower blood pressure, relieve PMS symptoms, help as an anti-depressant, anxiety and balance hormones.
No wonder vanilla is a popular scent in fragrances, candles, aromatherapy and other products as deodorizers. Try some vanilla for a dose of relaxation!
Sources
http://theepicentre.com/spice/vanilla/
https://morningchores.com/growing-vanilla/
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