Vanilla is a spice derived from the dark brown pod of certain orchids from he genus Vanilla..^[1] The main source of vanilla is from the Mexican flat-leafed vanilla (V. planifolia). The orchid is native to South America.

Description

When the vanilla pod is first picked, it is a yellow-green colour. The pod turns the well known brown colour only after it has been cured and dried.

Growing vanilla

To be added.

(Hand pollination or appropriate bee pollination should be covered.)

Uses for vanilla

Vanilla has numerous culinary uses, both sweet and savoury. It is well known in vanilla ice cream, vanilla cake, vanilla custard, etc. Vanilla is often used as a base flavouring for many sweets before other flavourings are added.

Vanilla pods can be reused a few times before they no longer release the flavour; just be sure to dry them properly before storing again.

Sources and citations

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanilla