Most often when we talk about good vanilla extract or vanilla beans, we picture using it to make a great dessert. We associate it with something sweet and can’t imagine it otherwise.
I grew up with Vanilla Wafers (are those cookies still around?), vanilla ice cream, vanilla pudding, etc. But it wasn’t before living in France for a few years that I noticed some unusual uses for vanilla in savory dishes.
I had been buying vanilla extract at the grocery store for use in desserts, not really paying attention to its low quality: it often had artificial coloring.
It wasn’t until I made an effort to buy a high-quality pure vanilla extract, vanilla in whole bean form, or powder that I started using vanilla in a variety of dishes with beautiful results. When I became really demanding, I began using only vanilla from Tahiti.
What’s so Special About the Tahitian Vanilla Bean?
First of all, vanilla from Tahiti is quite rare: the majority of the world’s vanilla comes from Madagascar and Indonesia. Tahitian vanilla represents less than 1% of worldwide production.
Secondly, the Tahitian vanilla plant, or Vanilla Tahitensis, is a different varietal than the more common Vanilla Planifolia which comprises most of the world’s production.
Its distinguishing feature is in the pod of the Vanilla Tahitensis, which is the only kind that does not split before maturity. This allows nature to produce many additional vanillin flavors within the pod.
In “ordinary” vanilla, the pod splits open when ripe. To avoid this bursting of the pod, vanilla growers harvest the vanilla when it is still green. However, this limits somewhat its flavor development.
Since it does not split at maturity, Tahitian vanilla beans can be harvested when fully ripe, when the taste and flavors are at their finest.
What does Tahitian Vanilla Bean Taste Like:
Many have described the unique taste of Tahitian vanilla as being comprised of floral notes with caramel and chocolate aromas.
The originality and intensity of the aromatic bouquet also come from its molecules. Tahitian Vanilla is notably the only vanilla containing a very high proportion of p-hydroxybenzoic acid.
However, the most remarkable molecule is ethyl vanillin: a vanilla flavor that is 3 to 4 times more intense than that of vanillin.
Another distinguishing feature of this rare varietal is the fatty acids present in its pods. The pods are also thicker and oilier than other types of vanilla.
For all these reasons it is sought after by world-class chefs. It is the vanilla bean used in many Michelin-starred restaurants.
Where to buy Tahitian Vanilla Beans and Extract Online:
You can find Tahitian vanilla beans and extract on Amazon.com:
Here are 3 brands of whole Tahitian Vanilla beans on Amazon.com:
1. FitnClean 50 Whole Non GMO Vanilla Beans from Tahiti
2. Cook’s 25 Tahitian Organic Vanilla Beans Grade A
3. Vanilla Products USA – 50 Tahitian Vanilla Beans
Here are 3 brands of pure Tahitian vanilla extract on Amazon.com:
1. Vanilla Pura Gourmet Vanilla Pure Tahitian Extract Chef’s Edition
2. Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract for Baking and Cooking
3. LorAnn Oils Double-Strength Pure Tahitian Vanilla Extract
How I Use Vanilla in Home-Cooking
In addition to using vanilla in baking, try adding a high-quality pure Tahitian vanilla bean extract to raw vegetable dishes. It’s a simple, quick, and easy way to up-level your meals at home without being a grand chef
While pure Tahitian vanilla extract can be expensive compared to a diluted or low-quality vanilla extract, a little bit goes a long way.
Recipes: 2 Ways to use Tahitian vanilla for a simple vegetable starter course:
1. Tomato Salad:
Watch me make this tomato salad recipe with vanilla extract from start to finish here: Instagram (@nancyconwayparis).
It consists of raw, sliced tomatoes with a vinaigrette made of raspberry vinegar, a dash of Tahitian Vanilla extract mixed into the vinegar, olive oil, salt & pepper. Chopped mint leaves are added on top of the tomatoes before serving. It’s a surprising mix of aromas.
The vanilla adds a great flavour but is not overwhelming. As I mention in my video, I like to ask people to guess what’s in the vinaigrette. While some friends have noticed the raspberry vinegar, no one has yet recognised the vanilla. The taste is very subtle.
2. Grated Carrot Salad:
This is one of my weeknight staples. It’s quick, healthy, and easy to make:
Grated carrots (I use a box grater)
For the vinaigrette whisk together:
Lemon juice
Add a dash of Tahitian vanilla powder or pure extract to the lemon juice
Add olive oil, salt & pepper
Optional:
-Black pepper from Madagascar (Voatsiperifery) instead of regular black pepper. Its exotic woody aromas give a delicious twist to this simple recipe.
-Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves add another dimension to the carrots.
Conclusion:
Tahitian vanilla is a natural addition to simple, healthy meals, but it makes a big difference.
Try the two easy recipes above. (Your kids might even enjoy eating their veggies).
Vanilla is not just for desserts anymore!
Photo Courtesy of Unsplash.com