Vanilla extract
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract (/vəˈnɪlə ɪkˈstrækt/) is a solution containing the flavor compound vanillin as the primary ingredient.
Etymology
The term "vanilla" comes from the Spanish word "vainilla", a diminutive form of "vaina" which means sheath. The word "extract" is derived from the Latin "extractus", the past participle of "extrahere" meaning "to draw out".
Preparation
Pure vanilla extract is made by maceration and percolation of vanilla beans in a solution of ethanol and water. This process extracts the flavor from the beans. The mixture is aged for several months to allow the flavors to meld.
Usage
Vanilla extract is widely used in both commercial and domestic baking, perfume manufacture and aromatherapy. It is a common ingredient in baking recipes due to its sweet, creamy flavor that enhances other ingredients.
Related Terms
- Vanilla sugar: A commonly used variant of sugar that is infused with vanilla extract.
- Vanilla bean: The fruit of the vanilla plant from which the extract is derived.
- Vanillin: The primary component of the extract that gives it its distinctive flavor.
- Ethanol: A form of alcohol used in the extraction process.
- Maceration: The process of softening or breaking into pieces using a liquid.
- Percolation: The process of a liquid slowly passing through a filter.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vanilla extract
- Wikipedia's article - Vanilla extract
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