Vanilla is the second most expensive flavor in the world and has
been prized for centuries for its wonderful taste. The fruit of a
climbing orchid native to South America, the vanilla bean is
cultivated in few regions of the world. Its name comes from the
Spanish vainilla, which means 'little pod.'
Ayala's Herbal Water beverages are made with the real bean, not
the commonly used synthetic imitation. A great amount of
labor and attention is required for the hand pollination,
individual curing and processing of the vanilla pods, but the
reward is well worth it. Vanilla's taste is rich, deep and
persistent, and contains more than 200 different volatile
molecules.
Culinary Uses of Vanilla
Vanilla's fine and sweet flavor is enjoyed in dessert dishes
throughout the world. Of course, one of the most common uses of
vanilla is for making ice-cream. In the United States, vanilla
ice-cream sits above chocolate and strawberry as the most popular
flavor, and for good reason-vanilla can stand on its own or serve
as an excellent accompaniment to fruity desserts and yes,
chocolate.
Vanilla is also a key ingredient for cakes, custards, creams,
and soufflés.