What makes your vanilla extract different from others?
By law, to be labeled a Pure Vanilla Extract, the liquid must be at least 35% alcohol and use only vanilla beans in the flavoring. A single vanilla bean has about 300 unique flavoring components. However, many of these are delicate flavors that occur in trace amounts and must be carefully extracted to maintain their distinctive flavors. To capture maximum flavor from the variety of unique flavor compounds, our extracts are produced using a proprietary cold extraction, slow percolation method. Damaging heat and pressure are never introduced into this process. This cold extraction process takes nearly a month to complete but ensures that the deep, rich flavor and delicate sweet, floral notes of each flavor compound are captured in our vanilla extracts. .
For more information on vanilla extract, read Behind the Seasoning: Vanilla Extract Uses & Recipes article.
Check out our Examining Extracts feature article for more information about the different types of extracts and how extracts are made.
Mexican Vanilla Extract Q&A
What is Mexican vanilla?
Mexican vanilla is like regular vanilla, but with more sweet-spiced, woodsy flavor and notes in taste.
How long does Mexican vanilla extract last?
Mexican vanilla extract can last up to 1-2 years, as long as the cap is secured and the extract is stored correctly.
Is there alcohol in Mexican vanilla extract?
Yes, Mexican vanilla extract usually contains alcohol. By law, vanilla extract must contain 35% alcohol.
“Isn’t vanilla extract from Mexico supposed to be the best?”
We are asked this question all the time in the shop. Like anything, it is a matter of opinion. Mexican Vanilla naturally has a spiced flavor notes.
How do you use Mexican vanilla extract?
Using Mexican vanilla extract in baked goods and desserts that include cloves, cinnamon or cardamom helps bring out the warm, sweet-spiced flavors. Surprisingly, using a bit of Mexican vanilla in tomato sauces can help cut acidity and bring other flavors to the surface.
