Madagascar Vanilla Beans 4oz

Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla beans are very rich in the chemical compound vanillin, which, along with more than a hundred other organic compounds, contributes to its unique mellow flavor and creamy aroma. It is the familiar natural flavor that we associate with vanilla ice-cream and other vanilla-flavored desserts and beverages. It has a creamier and buttery aroma than Tahitian Vanilla and best used in baked goods, ice-cream and anything where a traditional vanilla flavor is desired.

History

Cooking Ideas

Specialty desserts such as pots de creme, crème brûlée, and panna-cotta deserve the addition of whole bourbon vanilla beans to produce a truly rich flavor

Health Benefits

• Vanilla beans have essential oils which are used by aroma therapists as everything from an antioxidant to an antidepressant.
• This spice also contains small traces of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, iron and zinc. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese and copper are used by the body as co-factors for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and as a co-factor for cytochrome-oxidases enzymes.
• vanilla's antioxidant properties may help to prevent the damage caused free radicals. Because free radicals alter DNA, which can have carcinogenic effects, this could also mean that vanilla may help to reduce the risk of some forms of cancer.
• Vanillin is the chemical that gives vanilla beans its flavor. It can protect the body from sickle cell anemia by preventing red blood cells from forming the sickle shape that is characteristic of the disease.

How to Store

Wrap your vanilla beans in either wax paper or plastic wrap and store in an airtight glass or Tupperware container. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible from the container to prevent the vanilla beans from drying out. You should never store your vanilla beans in the refrigerator. Refrigeration will dry out your beans and excess moisture can promote a particular type of mold specific to vanilla. We recommend storing your airtight container in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or basement. Vanilla beans that have been stored correctly in ideal conditions can last upwards to two years.