A Spotlight on Indonesian Vanilla Beans: What Sets It Apart?
Known as the second most valued spice in the world, vanilla is widely used for its aroma and flavor in culinary endeavors. Its subtle yet beautiful note is a favorite among foodies everywhere, that’s why it’s important to choose the right kind with the best quality. Indonesian vanilla beans are deemed to be one of the best in the world for their unique aromatic character and undertones. In this post, we’ll delve deeper into the history of this gourmet spice and what makes it different from its Madagascar counterpart.
Indonesian Vanilla Beans Cultivation and Its History
Vanilla has been cultivated in Indonesia for centuries, but it was not native to the region. The spice was native to Mexico before it was brought over to Indonesia by the Dutch in 1819. It was thought that Indonesia’s tropical climate and fertile soils would be an ideal condition for the plant to flourish.
Joseph Marchal, a former employee of the Dutch East Indies, took five cuttings from Antwerp to be planted in Buitenzorg, Bogor. Only one of the cuttings survived the 181-day journey and was successfully cultivated.
Many may not know this, but vanilla is a very challenging plant to cultivate, as it takes 4 years to mature. It also only produces flowers one day in a year, which would quickly wilt when not pollinated. The success of cultivation in Indonesia signals significant progress and more vanilla plants were transported into the country in the 1840s by the Dutch government to expand its production.
With plantations in Java, Bali, Sulawesi, Sumatra, and Flores, the country is now one of the biggest vanilla producers in the world, second only to Madagascar.
Comparing Indonesian Vanilla Beans vs Madagascar
When you hear vanilla, most would probably associate it with Madagascar beans. But did you know that Indonesian vanilla beans have a distinct and unique profile that sets them apart from their Madagascar counterparts?
Madagascar beans are known to have a very round and rummy profile with some phenolic notes. On the other hand, Indonesian vanilla beans have a very woody, earthy, smoky character with some nice cacao undertones.
While both can be used in similar applications - ice cream, beverage, and baked goods, many will appreciate Indonesian beans’ distinct character that provides a deeper and full-bodied flavor profile.
Tripper: The Best Indonesian Vanilla Beans and Extracts with a Difference
We mentioned that cultivating vanilla beans can be a challenge. What’s even more challenging is keeping their quality intact as it goes through all the stages from the farm to your table. From cultivating, harvesting, curing, and processing, the beans need to be monitored properly to ensure all standards are met.
Tripper is committed to producing the best vanilla beans; that’s why it adopts a simple and transparent supply chain that guarantees high-quality products. We source our beans directly from Indonesian farmers, who are supported by our field officers to enhance plant yield, health, and disease control. The beans would then be transported to our curing facility to develop the right flavor profile before being transported into Tripper’s processing facility.
Tripper’s vanilla collection includes different products for different applications, namely vanilla extract, vanilla cuts, gourmet vanilla beans, vanilla paste, and vanilla extract powder. Curious as to which product would be best for you? Check out this guide to get started.
FAQs on Indonesian Vanilla Beans
Why Are Vanilla Beans So Expensive?
Vanilla beans and their products are so expensive because of the labor-intensive process involved to produce them, from cultivation by hand to curing carefully for months. Extra care is needed to produce high-quality vanilla, which explains its higher prices.
How Rare is Real Indonesian Vanilla Extract in the Market and How to Differentiate Them?
Real vanilla extracts are quite rare, some products can even mislead you by claiming to be something it’s not. We have three easy steps to help you ensure your spices are genuine: know the source; read labels carefully - if you can’t find Vanilla Extract on the label, then it’s more than likely that a vanilla imitation is used; and buy from brands that are committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing. Find out more about adulteration and its issues in this post.
Where is Vanilla Grown in Indonesia?
Vanilla is grown in several regions of Indonesia due to its fertile soil and tropical climate, namely Java, Sulawesi, Sumatra, Bali, and Flores.
What is the Difference Between Madagascar and Indonesian Vanilla?
The difference between Madagascar and Indonesian vanilla beans is their flavor profile. Whereas Madagascar beans have a very round and rummy profile with phenolic notes the Indonesian vanilla beans have a very woody, earthy, smoky character with some nice cacao undertones.
Where Can You Buy Indonesian Vanilla Beans?
You can buy Tripper’s vanilla product collection online via our company’s website.
Final Take: Is Indonesian Vanilla Beans Worth Buying?
In short, yes, Indonesian vanilla beans are definitely worth buying. With the many stages and challenges it has to go through before arriving on your table, it’s no wonder the spice is highly valued. Its unique flavor profile provides a very woody, earthy, smoky character with some nice cacao undertones; which could cater to those who prefer a deeper and full-bodied vanilla.