Vanilla Beans: Fragrant Pods of Complex Sweetness

Vanilla beans are the **fruit pods** of the *Vanilla planifolia* orchid, hand-pollinated and cured for weeks to develop their signature aroma. Each pod contains thousands of tiny seeds, rich in **vanillin** and complex flavor notes.

**~12 kcal**, minimal fat, ~**0.1 g protein**, **~0.5 g carbs**. Mostly used for flavor—nutritional impact is small.

- **Complex flavor:** more floral and deep than artificial vanilla. - **Antioxidant compounds:** vanillin has mild antioxidant properties. - **Luxury touch:** elevates desserts and drinks.

- **Costly:** labor-intensive to grow and cure. - **Alcohol extraction** needed for many recipes—pods require splitting and steeping. - Flavor can **degrade over time**—store carefully.

- Split pod lengthwise and **scrape out seeds**; add to custards, creams, batters. - Steep whole pod in milk/cream, then remove. - Make **homemade vanilla sugar**: bury used pod in sugar jar. - Pair with **chocolate, coffee, citrus, berries**.

Store beans **airtight, in a cool dark place** (not fridge). If they dry out, soak in warm milk/cream to soften.