The words "vanilla" and "vanillin" seem to many to be synonyms that refer exclusively to cooking. Today we will debunk this myth! Let's talk about the difference between these terms, how to get a natural flavoring supplement, and at the same time we will find out where vanilla pods are still used, except in the kitchen.
About vanilla and vanilla
Vanilla aroma accompanies us from childhood. They smell like ice cream and creme brulee, mother's eclairs and grandmother’s pies, baby soap and Montpensier sweets ... And much more.
The vanilla flavor is very common. It is a substance obtained by laboratory methods, similar to the original very remotely. Natural vanilla is several times more aromatic and tastier. And in terms of quality, of course, wins.
With this, it seems to be understandable, but the question naturally arises of where to get it? And here vanilla pods come in handy.
Selection rules
When buying, pay attention to appearance. Good pods shine as if oiled, have no cracks and chips. But the white coating should not frighten - this is the so-called vanilla frost, it periodically comes to the surface and does not affect the quality.
At home, you can store vanilla pods for several weeks by wrapping them in foil. Please note that this plant does not tolerate low temperatures, it will quickly deteriorate in the refrigerator. Better put the workpiece in the closet.
For its intended purpose: make vanilla sugar
These intricate little things that look like dried woods are sold in departments with spices. I must say that the price of one pod is much higher than the price of a whole bag of vanilla. But there’s more sense from him.
In order to make flavored sugar, just put the vanilla pod in the sugar bowl, cover with a tight lid and let it brew for about a week.
Such sugar can be put in coffee and tea, added to pastries, used in the preparation of homemade alcohol.
Seeds
Vanilla pods are filled with small seeds. They are also widely used in the preparation of various dishes. Carefully cut the pod along so that the seeds can be removed and sprinkle them. Add a pinch to desserts, boiled milk, gingerbread dough and cookies, berry pies, homemade ice cream.
You can use this natural seasoning for the children's menu. Add variety to your usual recipes, and your child will gladly enjoy semolina porridge or cottage cheese.
Try not to store seeds. It is better to open the pod immediately before use.
Extract
Vanilla quickly reacts with alcohol, passing part of its properties to it. If you decide to do extraction, use any alcohol with a strength of 35 about . You can, of course, add something from the 40-degree classics to the bottle, but, according to technologists, exactly 35 is the optimal fortress.
Remember that to get the extract you need as many pods as alcohol (by weight). If you plan to add a vanilla bean to a half-liter bottle of brandy, you can get a flavored drink at best, not an extract. Which, in general, is also not bad - many people like the taste of such alcohol.
By the way, vanilla pods in their art often use the bartender and barista.
Vanilla outside the kitchen
Vanilla pods are loved by many creative people. Photographers often use them for surroundings, working with subject photography. They harmonize especially well with white and light delicate shades, creating a contrast.
Sometimes vanilla and cooks are used for the same decorative purposes. Not for taste and smell, but for beauty. Curd dessert, sweet berry soup, profiteroles, a scoop of ice cream - any of these dishes will be decorated with a vanilla pod. Photos are delicious and memorable.
Those who are engaged in the manufacture of home cosmetics are well aware of what a magical aroma can add vanilla to soap or cream. And besides the smell, it also affects the color, giving it cold chocolate shades.
Often use this material needlewomen. In a decoction of vanilla, cinnamon and coffee, cotton, linen or calico are boiled to dye the fabric in a beautiful natural color and give it a smell. Interior toys sewn from such patches are pleasantly fragrant. Often vanilla pods are used as natural flavors.