Why is Mexican vanilla so cheap?

Why is Mexican vanilla so cheap?

Artificial vanilla extract is affordable, and is the vanilla extract predominantly sold in countries that produce vanilla beans. This is the paradox of vanilla's hand-crafted production. That's why in Mexico, even though the country grows very fine beans, artificial vanillas dominate the market.

Is Mexican vanilla any good?

Mexican vanilla that is produced by a reputable American company is fine however. Unfortunately, some specialty food stores carry Mexican vanilla made in Mexico. While it is possible that it is pure vanilla, the chances are more than 99% that it is not pure.

What is special about Mexican vanilla?

Our Traditional Mexican vanilla is more typical of a really good vanilla that you buy when you visit Mexico. It has 10% alcohol and a small amount (less than 1%) of vanillin (which is a naturally occurring vanillin, not synthetic). The vanillin helps hold the flavor and gives the vanilla a very rich, smooth flavor.

Why is Mexican vanilla clear?

Clear vanilla is pure, synthetic vanillin. It's often called “crystal vanilla.” You can buy it in the US for about the same price. Dark and murky is synthetic vanillin, most likely ethyl vanillin derived from coal tar.

Can Mexican vanilla go bad?

It really doesn't go bad unless improperly stored, but if you still have a bottle after 10 years it's time to "freshen up" and buy a new, smaller bottle! As for your Mexican vanilla question, it's one I get often – and I have a lengthy but interesting answer.

Can pure vanilla go bad?

Pure vanilla extract has an indefinite shelf life and doesn't really go bad. Please note that the extract has an alcohol base, and alcohol tends to very slowly evaporate after the first opening of the bottle. That means that after a few years you might notice that the flavor of the extract is slightly more intense.

What is the best pure vanilla?

There's no beating McCormick's Pure Vanilla Extract in taste and value. Made from Madagascar vanilla beans, water, and alcohol, this extract will give your recipes that classic vanilla flavor without any artificial ingredients.

How long will Mexican vanilla last?

When stored properly, vanilla extract will keep indefinitely, but using it within five years will allow for best flavor and aroma. Do not refrigerate or freeze, even after opening.

What is the difference between white vanilla and dark vanilla?

Clear vanilla is always imitation vanilla. Natural vanilla is always dark, because of stuff that comes from the vanilla bean in addition to the vanillin. There are also dark imitation vanillas, with added coloring, to resemble natural vanilla. Note that there's nothing necessarily wrong with imitation vanilla.

How do you make Mexican vanilla?

Place the vanilla beans in a glass bottle and add enough vodka to cover the beans completely. Cover the bottle and shake well. Store in a dark cool dark area and shake once a week. Liquid will begin to turn golden brown in color within one week, but its full flavor will develop in 4 to 8 weeks.

What is the difference between pure vanilla and vanilla extract?

The word “pure” signifies that the vanilla extract is made from only natural vanilla beans, water and alcohol. The flavoring is free from any colorings, preservatives, or other additives.

What is the difference between Mexican vanilla and Madagascar vanilla?

Mexican vanilla beans are thicker than other varieties. The flavor profile of Mexican Vanilla Beans is similar to Madagascar vanilla beans though the Mexican vanilla has a mellower, smooth, quality and a spicy, woody fragrance that provides a depth that the other vanilla beans cant match.