
Vanilla Pods
Bourbon, Tahitian, Mexican and Ugandan vanilla beans, Gourmet through Commercial grade.
Bourbon vanilla (Madagascar-origin, despite the name) is the industry standard — what most bakers and food manufacturers mean by "vanilla" without further specification. Tahitian beans are more floral and less classically "vanilla" in flavor, favored by some pastry chefs for that reason. Mexican and Ugandan beans are smaller-volume origin lines with their own regional followings.
Gourmet (Grade A) beans are plump, high-moisture, and meant to be used whole or split; Extract-grade beans are drier and priced for extract production, where moisture content matters less than vanillin concentration.
- Grade A or Gourmet vanilla beans
- These are the highest quality vanilla beans, with a moisture content of around 30% to 35%, plump appearance, and a strong, sweet aroma. They are usually long, thin, and very aromatic.
- Grade B or Extract vanilla beans
- These beans are a little drier and have a lower moisture content than Grade A vanilla beans. They are still good quality and are often used for making vanilla extract, vanilla powder, or other vanilla products.
- Grade C or Commercial vanilla beans
- These beans have a moisture content of around 15% to 25% and are often used in food processing and manufacturing. They are typically shorter, fatter, and less aromatic than Grade A or B vanilla beans.
- Bourbon Vanilla Beans
- Bourbon vanilla beans are the most popular type of vanilla bean, and they come from the Bourbon Islands (now known as Réunion Island) off the coast of Madagascar. They have a creamy, sweet flavor and a strong aroma.
- Tahitian Vanilla Beans
- Tahitian vanilla beans are shorter and plumper than Bourbon vanilla beans and have a more floral, fruity flavor with hints of cherry and licorice.
- Mexican Vanilla Beans
- Mexican vanilla beans are often described as having a spicy, woody flavor with hints of smokiness. They are a little less sweet and have a more complex flavor profile than Bourbon or Tahitian vanilla beans..
- Ugandan Vanilla Beans
- Ugandan vanilla beans are known for their bold, earthy flavor and aroma. They have a high vanillin content and are often used in perfumes and fragrances.
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