Vanilla Sugar - my secret ingredient.

An alluring scent which has a relaxing effect on the brain and the nerves, which also said to be an aphrodisiac. It is no wonder that vanilla is so powerfully intriguing.

Originally found in Veracruz, Mexico, growing in a rainforest as a beautiful climbing orchid plant, it is the only edible fruit of the orchid species. Grown in tropical regions of the world vanilla is the second most expensive spice after saffron. With its complex flavour and fragrance vanilla adds a special mysterious enchantment to your dishes, strengthening the charm making resistance ever so futile.

I adore vanilla pods, for me vanilla extract does not compared, it potency is not as strong. I buy mine large quantities from the internet which works out to be the same price, and as I get through a lot its worth it. In order for my desserts to an vigorous vanilla flavour ans scent I use vanilla sugar, which I make myself.

You will need 1 vanilla pod to every kilo of caster sugar initially. In a large jar, pour half the sugar. On a plate cut open the vanilla pod and scrap out the seeds and mix into around a quarter of a cup of sugar until the seeds are evenly distributed. Place the the empty pod and vanilla seed sugar into the sugar jar and pour in the rest of the sugar. Give the jar a little shake and leave to infuse for 6-8 weeks. The scent of the vanilla will spread and when you will top up the sugar as it finish the sugar will pick up the scent quickly. Once I have taken the seeds of the vanilla pod I do not waste the pod, instead I place them in my sugar jars.

I hope you found this post on vanilla interesting, let me know what you think,

Love Mademoiselle De Baker.

P.S as the vanilla fragrance is so beautiful try rubbing the outer layer of pod against your skin, you will find its scent will linger for hours.