When you think of vanilla, chances are you think of baking and desserts. But did you know that this versatile flavor has many uses beyond the kitchen? Let’s explore some of the delicious ways vanilla can be used in sweet and savory dishes alike.
1. Introduction to Vanilla’s Versatility
Vanilla flavoring is a staple of many of our favorite desserts, but its versatility extends far beyond the sweet treats we know and love. Vanilla bean has been used to add flavor to dishes from around the world for centuries — from French and Italian cuisine, to Indian, Spanish, and even Chinese recipes.
Not only is the flavor of vanilla used widely in baking and cooking, but the extract, extract paste, and powder, are also widely available for purchase. Perfect for adding seamlessly into liquid recipes and custards, these forms of vanilla, in combination with the bean, provide the perfect toolkit for flavoring dishes with the unmistakable sweet flavor of vanilla.
Vanilla in Savory Dishes
Vanilla might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of savory dishes, but it is often an unexpected and key flavor component of dishes from around the world. Spanish, Indian, and Mexican cuisine all commonly uses vanilla as a flavor enhancer in its meat and fish dishes. In Spain, it is common to add a drop of vanilla extract to fish and seafood dishes, and in Mexico, the liqueur mezcal is often accompanied by a slice of vanilla bean.
Vanilla in Drinks
Vanilla flavoring has become a favorite of mixologists from around the world. It can be added directly to cocktails, such as hot toddies and grogs, or mixed with liquors and liquers to make creamy and flavorful drinks. It is also frequently added to coffees, teas, smoothies, and juices, to provide an extra memorable flavor and scent.
- Vanilla flavoring is used in sweet and savory dishes from around the world.
- It is loved by mixologists for drinks and cocktails.
- It can be used in concentrate, extract, paste, and powder form.
- It is a key flavor component in Spanish, Indian, Mexican, French and Italian cuisine.
Although its use in sweet dishes will always remain its most popular application, the versatility of vanilla as a flavoring reaches far and wide. Whether you’re looking to add a hint of sweetness to savory dishes, or spice up classic drinks with its distinct and beloved flavor, vanilla provides an exciting and unique flavor to whatever you’re making.
2. Shifting Away from Sweet Treats
If there’s a flavor to invoke coziness, warmth, and familiarity, it’s vanilla. And while the classic ingredient may reign supreme in desserts, it also has a versatility that shouldn’t be ignored.
From savory to sweet, here are some creative ideas to incorporate vanilla into the food you make:
- Breakfast Dishes – Whether you’re making mashed vanilla banana oatmeal or French toast with vanilla sauce, you can create a more nuanced flavor by adding more than one type of vanilla such as bourbon vanilla, Tahitian vanilla, or Mexican vanilla.
- Drinks – Incorporate this flavor into a hot tea, cappuccino, chai latte, iced coffee, milk, smoothie, or even green juice for a hint of sweet subtlety.
- Soups and Stews – You can infuse a savory dish with a hint of vanilla and the delicate sweetness it brings to the table. For example, try combining it with a mushroom soup.
- Salads – Create a vinaigrette or dressing with a small hint of vanilla. For instance, combine olive oil, lime juice, honey, and vanilla extract to create a tangy, tart, and light yet creamy dressing.
- Savory Dishes – As a finishing touch for plated dishes, use vanilla sugar, which is made from blending one part sugar with a few drops of pure vanilla extract. Sprinkle it onto a fish fillet, pork chop, roasted vegetables, or even a plate of crudités.
By introducing more than just dessert recipes into your culinary arsenal, you can experience the pleasant aroma and bold flavor that only vanilla can provide.
3. Adding Vanilla to Drinks and Savoury Dishes
Vanilla is a flavorful extract derived from the beans of the vanilla orchid plant; it’s common in desserts due to its distinct sweet aroma. But, in addition to being a classic flavoring agent in sweet treats, vanilla can also add depth and richness to savory dishes. Let’s take a look at three ways to incorporate vanilla into drinks and savoury dishes.
- Vanilla Cocktail Infusions – Vanilla extract is a great addition to cocktails, adding a touch of sweetness while providing a flavor boost. Try experimenting with a pleasant twist on the classic margarita by swapping out the lime juice for an ounce of vanilla extract. You can also infuse drinks with vanilla beans to subtly bring out the liquor’s flavor and complexity.
- Savory Sauces – Vanilla extract is the secret ingredient in many creamy sauces. You can add it to sauces like béchamel and cream sauces for pasta dishes. The subtle sweetness of vanilla pairs really nicely with spices like nutmeg, enhance the flavor of a sauce without overpowering it.
- Vanilla Bean Rice – Preparing rice with the addition of a few drops of vanilla extract and a scraped vanilla bean adds depth and complexity to any meal. The natural sweetness of the bean’s pulp is mellowed out by the savory rice, creating a dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
is a great way to explore the incredible versatility of this classic flavoring agent. Its subtle sweetness and deep complexity can take your culinary creations to the next level. Start experimenting with different drinks and savory dishes to find out how vanilla can truly shine.
4. Exploring Different Vanilla Varieties
Vanilla has become a popular flavor choice not only for desserts but for the plethora of savory dishes that utilize its warm, aromatic qualities. Beyond cooking, vanilla has also become integrated into many products, from vanilla-scented candles and fragrances to massage oils. The demand for quality vanilla has only grown as product companies have tried to meet it.
As more and more varieties of vanilla become available, understanding the distinctions between them can help you make the most out of your culinary adventures. Here are a few varieties of vanilla to explore.
- Madagascar Vanilla: Widely known and appreciated for its mild, smooth flavor, Madagascar vanilla offers the perfect balance of sweetness and complexity, making it ideal for a wide variety of uses.
- Mexican Vanilla: Mexican vanilla is known for its bold characteristics, which bring a bit of heat and smokiness to the flavor. It’s a popular choice for drinks, in both hot and cold forms.
- Tahitian Vanilla: The humidity of Tahitian vanilla gives it a floral taste, making it an ideal choice for recipes that call for a slightly fruity flavor.
- Indonesian Vanilla: Indonesian vanilla is sometimes called Javanese vanilla and is a favorite of chefs for its rich and robust flavor. Its natural sugars are balanced with subtle licorice undertones, making it ideal for baking.
- Bourbon Vanilla: Bourbon vanilla is harvested on the island of Réunion, formerly known as Île Bourbon. Intense and rich, this type of vanilla has a long-lasting aftertaste with notes of raisins and cloves.
As this overview of vanillas shows, there are plenty of varieties to choose from depending on what kind of flavor you’re looking for. With a little bit of research, you’ll be able to find the perfect vanilla for whatever type of dish you’re creating.
5. Herbal Pairings to Enhance Vanilla’s Flavour
1. Vanilla flavors can be paired with various herbs to give it an added flavor. Consider pairing vanilla with the pungent sweetness of anise for a licorice-like twist on desserts like cakes, custards, puddings, and ice cream. Basil also complements the sweet vanilla flavor, as does mint, which can also be used in baked goods, smoothies, syrups, drinks, and beyond.
2. Looking for something to deepen the flavor of a creamy sauce? Use the mild spiciness of cardamom, or cardamom extract, to layer the flavors of vanilla and create a rich, intense flavor. You can also add a hint of the exotic, woodsy aroma of star anise to vanilla to create a unique and memorable flavor.
3. Still wondering about how to spice up your vanilla treats? You can’t go wrong with adding a kick of the unmistakable herbal flavor of rosemary. The smoky pine notes are a great touch alongside vanilla, especially in sweeter baking recipes. You can also use it in ice cream or infused simple syrups. Cinnamon is another herb that pairs well with vanilla; a sprinkle of it can make sweet treats like cakes, cookies, and puddings more interesting.
4. As you can see, there are loads of herbs that pair perfectly with the flavor of vanilla. Combining various herbs will give you a flavor that is truly unique, and will impress everyone at your next gathering. Create your own unique recipe, or simply follow the suggestions above. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to make a delicious dessert with the versatile flavor of vanilla.
6. Finishing with a Little Sweetness
Vanilla is much more than just a flavoring for desserts. It adds a touch of warmth and richness to both sweet and savory dishes. Here are six ways you can add vanilla to your meals:
- Beautify your salads. Drizzle a simple vanilla vinaigrette over your favorite fresh greens for a light and flavorful dressing. Finish off the plate with a sprinkle of toasted nuts and a shower of crunchy croutons.
- Go beyond pancakes. Try adding a dash of vanilla extract to your favorite Sunday morning waffle or French toast recipe for a delicious and aromatic twist.
- Enhance your slow-cooker meals. Vanilla can take the rich depth of your slow-cooked meat dishes to the next level. Generously stir in a few drops at the end of the cooking time for a delicious aromatic hit.
- Perk up your pastas. A simple sprinkle of minced vanilla bean over freshly cooked pasta adds an interesting and subtle flavor that you’ll love. Try it with cream-based sauces for a flavorful twist.
- Barbecue like a pro. Give your summer kebabs an unexpected flavor by adding a few drops of vanilla extract to the marinade.
- Indulge your sweet tooth. Vanilla is a classic flavor for desserts like custard, ice cream, and cakes. Add a pinch of ground vanilla beans for a slight variation with a powerful aroma.
With a little creativity, you can transform your everyday meals into something special. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and think outside the box when it comes to incorporating vanilla into your recipes. Your taste buds will thank you!
Concluding Remarks
Vanilla is a magical ingredient, and can turn even the most mundane dishes into something special. Whether you like to add it into savory recipes or desserts, this versatile spice has no boundaries! So, take that vanilla flavor to the next level and cook up something unique and flavorful today!
