Homemade Vanilla Extract
FOOD NEWS
How Mexican Vanilla Extract Differs From Other Types
BY CLAIRE REDDEN
Mexican vanilla extract is different from other varieties in a few ways. It carries sweet and woodsy notes with a creamy and spicy-sweet flavor that recalls clove or nutmeg.

Vanilla extract pouting into spoon

Vanilla extract pouting into spoon

The vanilla flower is a small, delicate flower that is typically greenish-yellow in color. It is pollinated by a specific type of bee found only in Mexico called the Melipona bee, although in other areas of the world it is often pollinated by hand.
Mexican vanilla plants are the only variety that is naturally pollinated by Melopina bees. Fermenting and curing the extract can take anywhere from three to six months.
Closeup of vanilla Beans on tray
The vanilla pods are put onto straw mats and slipped into an oven for up to 2 days. The pods are spread out in the sun, covered with palm rugs, and left to ripen in wooden boxes.
full frame vanilla pods to dry in the sun on the shelf. top view
Finally, the beans are vacuum-sealed and aged for at least 2 to 3 months. This process brings woodsy, smoky, and pungent spicy notes to the final vanilla extract.
Mexican vanilla extract bottle
Michel Mustiere, Culinary Director of Velas Resorts, describes the vanilla as astringent and toasty, with flavors of clove, raisin, and cocoa. It's also thinner in consistency.
Adding a spoonful of vanilla extract to a bowl with red velvet mixture. One of the steps in the preparation of a home-made red velvet cake in a domestic kitchen.
Mexican vanilla pairs especially well with chocolate, as well as citrus fruits like orange, lemon, lime, or even kumquats. Its spiciness also goes well with chile peppers.
Vanilla extract in a bottle with a cork
Be cautious when purchasing vanilla in Mexico, as it could contain coumarin (which is banned in the U.S.,) or be labeled "pure" when it is actually artificial.
Vanilla pods. Sticks of vanilla and white sugar in bowl on kitchen table. Top view.
If the product has a vague ingredient list, says "tonka bean," or has no list, odds are it's not authentic Mexican vanilla. Instead, look for "vanilla bean" on the ingredient list.