Vanilla extract is derived from the vanilla bean, a fruit with a bitter taste known for it's aromatic and flavoring properties. This natural product dates back to Roman times and has been used in cooking since antiquity. Vanilla contains a number of flavoring compounds including vanillin, a compound with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It is used in a variety of cuisines and is the main ingredient in chocolate. In fact, chocolate cake and several types of sweets such as mochas and coulis are made with vanilla.
Vanilla Extract comes from the vanilla bean's stems, called the apothecary, or more commonly, the petals. The extract is made by soaking the dried flowers and petals in alcohol for one day. The resulting vanilla extract is highly flavored, with higher levels of flavoring than any other component, including the pure vanilla bean. Vanilla extract is now available in several forms, including concentrated drinks, tablets, shampoos, gels, lotions, soaps, salts, condiment, or homemade recipes. Click for more details about the vanilla extract.
There are a number of recipes which can be whipped up using vanilla extract. Vanilla ice cream was a very popular recipe developed in the 1970s, though it was originally intended for baking purposes only. One example of a dessert that uses vanilla essence is the so-called "vanilla sponge" which is a light and airy sponge cake made with vanilla essence and eggs. In addition to baking, vanilla extract is also used in candied deserts, sauces, frozen dessert mixes, or powdered beverages like tea.
Apart from its delicious flavor, vanilla extract has other important health benefits. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also lowers blood sugar levels and reduces blood pressure. Vanilla flavor also helps to settle wrinkles, the irritation and swelling, and as aromatherapy it can relax and soothe nerves. The American Heart Association recommends using vanilla extract for diabetes patients. Some researchers believe that it may help fight cancer and stimulate the immune system.
When buying or preparing a vanilla extract recipe, it is best to purchase this product that contains the natural product called "vanilla" or "maps" instead of "artificially engineered" vanilla. Pure vanilla extracts have a rich, earthy flavor. They are sold in glass jars, tin cans, or in bottled drinks like chocolate eclairs and vanilla berry cookies. Another option is to prepare a home-made recipe using this product. Recipes that use vanilla beans or extracts are readily available on the internet. A variety of recipes are available at libraries or online cookbooks, or you could design your own.
Another way to add this flavorful extract to a recipe is to use it as a substitute for maple syrup. Vanilla and maple syrup are similar in taste, however, vanilla extract has a richer flavor and almost blackberry-like in taste. Use it in place of molasses in brownies or cookie recipes or replace molasses with vanilla in whipped cream. It can also be used in place of vegetable oil in savory dishes or mixed into marinades and soups. Use it in the same amount or slightly more than oil. To learn more about this topic, click here: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/best-vanilla-extract-beans-imitation_l_5cd2f355e4b07ce6ef791aed.
