How and when to use vanilla bean, flavoring, and extract

If you are a fan of baking, surely vanilla is an ingredient that cannot be missing in your kitchen. The best part is that this is a very Mexican product, as this type of orchid is endemic to our country.  Before colonization, pre-Hispanic peoples used vanilla to flavor their drinks with cocoa, but today it is the most widely used flavoring worldwide. However, we must mention that vanilla is not usually a very economical ingredient, especially when we talk about the vanilla pod or a high-quality vanilla extract, so the most economical option is the flavoring. If you want to know the differences between the pod, the extract, and the vanilla flavoring, as well as the best way to use each product, then you cannot miss all the information we have for you.  You can also read: How to use the attachments of your mixer?Everything you need to know about vanilla pod, flavoring, and extract In addition to being a 100% Mexican ingredient, vanilla gives that perfect touch of flavor to cookies, cakes, ice creams, sponge cakes, and more, so here we help you make the most of the 3 presentations of vanilla. Vanilla Pod The vanilla pod is the most expensive presentation, as it is much purer and has an intense flavor that takes all kinds of desserts to the next level. To obtain the tiny seeds, the pod is cut lengthwise and a knife is used to remove them; these are the little specks you can see in certain vanilla ice creams, pastry cream, or crème brûlée.  Due to its price, the vanilla pod is usually used in the preparation of gourmet products, such as those mentioned above.  Vanilla Extract This ingredient is produced by macerating vanilla pods in alcohol, such as vodka. Although it is more expensive than artificial flavoring, it is much more economical than the vanilla pod. The vanilla extract is widely available in supermarkets and baking supply stores. Prices usually vary depending on the brand and quality, so support local producers and buy the extract made in Papantla, as it has a designation of origin.  Moreover, one of the main producers of vanilla extract points out that unlike the vanilla produced in Madagascar or Tahiti, Mexican vanilla “is known for its creamy and sweet notes, as well as its subtle spicy notes.” Being liquid, vanilla essence dissolves very well in all kinds of mixtures. Experts recommend using it in sponge cakes, cookies, drinks, doughs, chocolate desserts, and more.  You can also read: How to make vanilla extract at homeVanilla Flavoring Vanilla flavoring is the most economical option when baking, but it is also important to pay close attention to the label before buying artificial flavoring. This product does not contain natural vanilla, as it is made with synthetic vanillin, which in some cases is made from wood pulp or petrochemical products, according to WebMD. On the other hand, you have probably heard that vanilla flavoring is made with castoreum, a substance that comes from the anal glands of beavers, but nowadays it is very unlikely to be used. Still, it is not a bad idea to read the ingredient list before putting it in your cart. You can use this ingredient if you have a dessert business, as it is ideal for jellies, cakes, and other recipes, since, being accessible, it will allow you to offer delicious options at a reasonable price.  You can also read: 8 tips for preparing pastry cream