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vanilla bean.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeFermented
ALSO KNOWN AS
vanilla pod
SERVING
CALORIES
288
PROTEIN
3.2g
CARBS
65g
FAT
2.1g
FIBER
28g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories288kcal—
Protein3.2g6%
Carbohydrates65g24%
Fiber28g100%
Sugar12.5g25%
Total fat2.1g3%
Saturated fat0.40g2%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol0mg0%
Water25g—
MINERALS
Sodium9.0mg0%
Potassium1450mg31%
Calcium122mg9%
Iron0.70mg4%
Magnesium105mg25%
Phosphorus110mg9%
Zinc0.10mg1%
Copper0.07mg8%
Manganese0.20mg9%
Selenium0.50µg1%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A0µg0%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0µg0%
Vitamin E0mg0%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.01mg1%
Riboflavin (B2)0.09mg7%
Niacin (B3)0.40mg3%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.04mg1%
Vitamin B60.03mg2%
Folate (B9)4.0µg1%
Vitamin B120µg0%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 tablespoon9g
1 teaspoon3g
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 piece4g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Rich in antioxidants that protect against cell damage
- ✓Contains vanillin which may have anti-inflammatory properties
- ✓Aromatic compounds may help reduce anxiety and improve mood
- ✓Provides trace amounts of essential minerals like potassium and magnesium
- ✓Natural flavor enhancer that can help reduce added sugar intake
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Split the bean lengthwise and use the back of a knife to scrape out the seeds
- 2Place used pods in a jar of sugar to create natural vanilla-infused sugar
- 3Simmer the whole pod in milk or cream to extract deep, complex flavors
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store in an airtight glass container in a cool, dark place
- Do not refrigerate as it can cause the beans to harden and grow mold
- Air out the beans for 15 minutes every few weeks to maintain moisture
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
How long do vanilla beans last?
When stored correctly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, vanilla beans can last for up to 2 years.
What should I look for when buying vanilla beans?
Look for beans that are plump, dark, moist, and flexible. They should have a strong aroma and a slight oily sheen on the surface.
Can I freeze vanilla beans to make them last longer?
No, freezing is not recommended as it dries out the beans and can cause the vanillin to crystallize on the surface.
What is the best substitute for one vanilla bean?
One vanilla bean is roughly equivalent to 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract or 1 tablespoon of vanilla bean paste.
How do I use a vanilla bean in a recipe?
Cut the bean lengthwise with a sharp knife, pull it open, and scrape the tiny black seeds into your batter or liquid.
Can I reuse the pod after scraping out the seeds?
Yes, the empty pod still contains significant flavor. You can dry it and put it in sugar, or simmer it in liquids like milk or syrups.
What do I do if my vanilla beans have dried out?
You can rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water or milk for about 30 minutes before use, or grind them into a powder.
Are the white crystals on my vanilla bean mold?
Usually not; if they are tiny, needle-like crystals, it is likely 'frost' or crystallized vanillin, which indicates high quality. Mold is typically fuzzy and smells off.
Why are vanilla beans so expensive?
Vanilla is the second most expensive spice because it is labor-intensive; the flowers must be hand-pollinated and the beans cured for months.
RECIPES
Cook with vanilla bean.
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