VANILLA
Indian Name : Vanilla
Vanilla spice is essentially used for flavoring. This plant is used in a number of products right from food to beverages to candies to artificial flavoring etc. It has different varieties being produced in different regions of the world. Vanilla is an expensive spice, thus used in small quantities.
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TYPES OF VANILLA
Bourbon vanilla : Bourbon Vanilla is typically grown in Indian Ocean islands like Madagascar, the Comoros, and Reunion.
Mexican vanilla : It comes from the place of its origin -Mexico.
Tahitian vanilla : Tahitian Vanilla originates from French Polynesia.
FORMS OF VANILLA
- Whole Beans
- Powder
- Extract
Vanilla has been cultivated and used in cuisines since many centuries. Totonacs of Mexico were the earliest cultivator of this fruit. They believed vanilla as a gift from the God. Ancient Totonacs used it in a spiritual offerings. Totonacs were defeated by Aztecs who got the knowledge of this bean. From Aztecs the beans reached in the hand of Spaniards who used it to flavor cake and pleasing drinks. In 17th century, during the reign of Elizabeth vanilla began to be used in many cuisines and from then its versatility was discovered.
By 18th century, vanilla was grown in the gardens of France and Germany. Research were carried out with regard to its growing conditions. Later the plant was transferred to the colonies in tropics in Seychelles, Indonesia, Comoros Island. Even today vanilla has not lost its charm and is used in various confectionery and food items.
Vanilla spice is extensively used in food processing for its aroma and strong flavor. The products can range from custard powders to milk powders, ice creams to biscuits to confectionery, sweets etc. It is also used for artificial flavoring of aerated drinks, juices etc. Coca Cola is said to be the largest consumer of vanilla for its beverages. It is also used to flavor certain medicinal syrups for infants and children. Vanilla essential oil is popularly used in aromatherapy. It is sometimes also considered as an aphrodisiac.
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