The history of vanilla is pretty romantic, if you ask me. It originated in Mexico and was first used by the Aztecs as a luxury item - they even used it as a form of currency! The Spanish conquistadors were the ones who brought vanilla back to Europe, where it became a highly sought-after ingredient among the aristocracy.
Now, let's get to the good stuff - the difference between pure vanilla and vanilla extract. Pure vanilla is made by infusing the seed pods in a neutral-tasting liquid, like ethanol or glycerin, to extract the flavor and aroma. On the other hand, vanilla extract is a concentrated liquid that's made from vanillin, a synthetic compound that mimics the flavor and aroma of vanilla.
The Difference Between Pure Vanilla and Imitation Vanilla Extract – Artofit
So, which one should you use in your baking and cooking adventures? Well, if you want the real deal, go for pure vanilla - it's like the difference between a Ferrari and a Toyota! But if you're on a budget or want a stronger flavor, vanilla extract is the way to go.
