Region of Origin
Commodity:
Tahitian Vanilla Bean
Description & Origin
Vanilla beans are the fruit of a tropical Mexican orchid called the vanilla orchid, which is the only orchid that can produce an edible fruit. Vanilla orchids have over 150 varieties, but only three are common in commercial use. Vanilla Tahitiensis is the variety that produces Tahitian vanilla. Tahitian vanilla beans are long, skinny seed pods of a dark brown hue. They are typically 2-3 times more...
Other Names
Vanilla Pod
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Vanilla beans are typically used in very small quantities, so they do not have a significant nutritional value, but some trace amounts of calcium and potassium can be found in vanilla extract. In traditional medicine, vanilla bean has been used to calm nerves and numb tooth pain, but neither of these are proven methods of medicine.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Vanilla beans are very versatile as they can be incorporated into many different desserts and beverages. The pods of the vanilla bean can be used to make pure vanilla extract, which is a common ingredient used in baking. However, the caviar inside each pod can be substituted for vanilla extract in any recipe for a stronger taste. Using the caviar instead of the extract is popular for those who want to avoid the alcohol taste of the extract. They are traditionally used to flavor pastry cream and crème anglaise, as well as ice cream and other sweets.
Flavor Pairings
Apricots, Blackberry, Banana, Blueberry, Cherry, Coconut, Lemon, Orange, Cinnamon, Chocolate, Walnut, Caramel, Mango, Pineapple, Strawberry, Fig
How to Prepare
Use a sharp knife to slowly slice lengthwise down the center of the pod, starting just below the curled tip. Next, with one hand delicately holding the vanilla bean, hold your knife perpendicular and scrap the blade across the length of the vanilla bean, collecting the caviar along the blade.
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
Store vanilla bean in its original packaging in a cool, dry, dark place until use. Once package is opened, store the remaining pods tripled wrapped in freezer bags, squeezing as much air out as possible under the same conditions. Do not refrigerate vanilla beans as they will hard and crystallize.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
The entirety of the vanilla pod can be used!
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
60-85°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
55-60°F (Warm Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
Yes
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
85-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Unknown
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes - Low
Quality Assessment
A good quality vanilla bean should have dark brown skin and be soft and spongy with a strong fruity aroma. Avoid vanilla beans that have brittle skin, mildew, or no scent. It is important to store vanilla beans in their original, vacuumed sealed packaging and store under the proper conditions because cold air can dry the pods and create mold.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, Tahitian vanilla beans may last up to 1 year.
