FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where does vanilla originate?
  • What is the best type of Vanilla Bean?
  • How many types of vanilla exist??
  • How do I store vanilla beans?
  • What part of the Vanilla Bean do you use?
  • What is the difference between Gourmet Vanilla (Grade A) and Grade B Vanilla?
  • What makes vanilla beans "Gourmet" or "Grade A" quality?
  • Can I use Grade A vanilla beans in vanilla extract?
  • How many vanilla beans should I use when making homemade vanilla extract?
  • What exactly is Bourbon vanilla?
  • What is the difference between Ugandan Vanilla and Bourbon vanilla?
  • Can you make vanilla extract without alcohol?
  • How much alcohol is in pure vanilla extract?
  • How much alcohol is in pure vanilla extract?
  • How long will gourmet vanilla beans remain fresh?

WHERE DOES VANILLA ORIGINATE?

The vanilla orchid (Vanilla planifolia Andrews) originated in Mexico and, for centuries, was the exclusive secret of the native Totonac Indians who were later conquered by the Aztecs. In the 19th century, it was imported to the Indian Ocean, particularly to Reunion Island.

WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF VANILLA BEAN?

The "best" type depends on your personal preference in flavor.

HOW MANY TYPES OF VANILLA EXIST?

There are over 150 types of vanilla in the world, including our own Ugandan Vanilla, Indian vanilla, Tonga vanilla, Madagascar or Bourbon Vanilla, Tahitian Vanilla, Mexican Vanilla and so many more.

WHERE DOES VANILLA ORIGINATE?

The vanilla orchid (Vanilla planifolia Andrews) originated in Mexico and, for centuries, was the exclusive secret of the native Totonac Indians who were later conquered by the Aztecs. In the 19th century, it was imported to the Indian Ocean, particularly to Reunion Island.

HOW DO I STORE VANILLA BEANS?

It is advisable to keep these two aspects away when storing your vanilla beans that are air and moisture. Just begin with unpacking all the vanilla beans from their packaging and wrapping them in waxed paper; then place them in an airtight or vacuum container to ensure you get as much air out of the container. You can then store it in a dark, cool place like the pantry, cupboard, or basement. Keep away from the freezer of the refrigerator.

WHAT PART OF THE VANILLA BEAN DO YOU USE?

The vanilla bean is comprised of the outer shell, which we call the “pod.” The inside is filled with tiny seeds. When you are making anything that needs the use of vanilla beans, you want to use the whole bean.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOURMET VANILLA (GRADE A) AND GRADE B VANILLA?

The Grade A beans are commonly attributed to as 'prime' or 'gourmet' vanilla beans. They (Grade A) have a much higher moisture content than grade B (extraction grade) vanilla beans. Thus, the flavor is somewhat diluted in a gourmet bean, but it does not take as long to transfer flavor to the dish.

WHAT MAKES VANILLA BEANS "GOURMET" OR "GRADE A" QUALITY?

Grade-A beans are visually more beautiful bean; plump, pliable, and full of fresh vanilla bean caviar. They are dark and chocolate-like, sometimes with hints of red. Their texture is soft due to their higher moisture content; which is usually around 30%.

CAN I USE GRADE A VANILLA BEANS IN VANILLA EXTRACT?

Grade A vanilla beans are meant for cooking but they can also be used in making vanilla extract. If Grade B is available, it can also work for extracting and generally yields good flavor.

HOW MANY VANILLA BEANS SHOULD I USE WHEN MAKING HOMEMADE VANILLA EXTRACT?

For smaller vanilla beans, you will need 15 or more to make up one ounce. If you prefer to use a cup measurement, the proportions are roughly 3 whole vanilla beans per 1 cup of spirit (80 proof)

WHAT EXACTLY IS BOURBON VANILLA?

Bourbon Vanilla is Madagascar Vanilla; it is mostly cultivated in Madagascar. The word “Bourbon” originates from the French Bourbon Monarchy in France. Many people have a different perception of the meaning of Bourbon Vanilla. Also originating from Bourbon Island (now known as Reunion Island) in the Indian Ocean off the East Coast of Africa. Bourbon vanilla is a label created in 1964, which corresponds to the culture of vanilla in the Indian Ocean.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UGANDAN VANILLA AND BOURBON VANILLA?

Ugandan vanilla beans are creamy and extremely bold in flavor with an aroma reminiscent of figs, milk chocolate, and raisins. They produce a higher-than-average vanillin content, which makes them perfect for desserts such as chocolate truffles or ice cream. While Bourbon Vanilla (Madagascar vanilla) has higher concentrations of vanillin than beans from other countries, another reason why Madagascar vanilla beans are rich in flavor.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VANILLA AND BOURBON VANILLA?

There is simply a difference in the name; Bourbon vanilla is a label created in 1964, which corresponds to the culture of vanilla in the Indian Ocean.

CAN YOU MAKE VANILLA EXTRACT WITHOUT ALCOHOL?

Vanilla extract does not necessarily need to be made with alcohol, but finding a non-alcoholic version at the store can be difficult and costly. To make non-alcoholic extracts, just substitute the alcohol called for in any extract recipe with three parts food-grade liquid glycerin and one part water. Stir the two ingredients together until well combined.

HOW MUCH ALCOHOL IS IN PURE VANILLA EXTRACT?

There is 35 percent alcohol by volume in pure vanilla extract

HOW LONG WILL GOURMET VANILLA BEANS REMAIN FRESH?

Stored properly, gourmet beans should remain moist and easy to work with for at least six months, many times quite a bit longer. If the beans dry out a bit, you can place half of a small potato in a jar with them to soften them for use. You can also place them in some warm water or milk just before use.