Vanilla Pods: A Flavorful Journey from Nature

Vanilla pods are the naturally dried beans of the vanilla orchid, originally native to Mexico. Our handpicked, premium-quality vanilla pods are selected for their plump, moist texture and sweet, aromatic flavor. Inside each pod, you'll find tiny black seeds that form a rich, thick paste, ready to release their exquisite taste.

The Variety: A Bold and Complex Flavor

Vanilla, the only fruit-bearing orchid, imparts unique flavors depending on where it's grown. We choose the Planifolia variety, known for its organic certification and exceptional flavor profile. This variety offers a rich, creamy, and deeply complex taste, with fruity notes, complemented by caramel and chocolate undertones. It’s the perfect vanilla for adding depth to New Zealand’s favorite baked treats.

Why Real Vanilla Is Worth It

Vanilla’s deep, sweet flavor is multi-dimensional, with hints of liquor, and can elevate a wide range of dishes. From baked goods and sweets to custards, beverages, and confectionery, the uses are endless.

Due to the labor-intensive process involved in cultivating and drying vanilla, it is the second most expensive spice globally, after saffron. Unlike artificial vanilla essence—which is made from a single flavor compound and may even come from paper pulp by-products—natural vanilla contains hundreds of aromatic compounds, giving it a far more intricate and sophisticated flavor profile.

Vanilla Beyond the Kitchen

Vanilla’s popularity extends far beyond the kitchen. Its warm, comforting scent is used in cosmetics, perfumes, and aromatherapy, offering a calming and luxurious experience.