Dominican Republic, Loma Azul - Gourmet Vanilla Beans - Grade A
Regular price $39.00
Unit price per
| Bean Origin: | Dominican Republic |
| Region: | Loma Azul |
| Rarity Index: | Incredibly Rare |
| Bean Grade: | Gourmet - Grade A |
| Moisture Content: | 28-35% |
| Bean Size: | 4.5-5.5 inches | 13-15cm |
| Bean Family: | Vanilla Planifolia |
| Certifications: | Vegan, Gluten Free, Halal, Non-GMO ,Kosher |
| Bean Flavor Profile | |
| Tasting Notes: | rich, creamy, and sweet profile with subtle floral notes |
| Extract Taste: | warm, sweet, floral |
| Recommended Extract Spirit: | Vodka, Rums, Bourbons, Brandy |
| Uses: | Extract Making, Baking, Cooking, Breweries, Cocktails |
| Pairing: | Ice cream, pastries, dark chocolates and making vanilla extract. |
Welcome to Loma Azul!
Vanilla beans from the Dominican Republic are a prized and sought-after ingredient in the world of culinary arts and perfumery. These beans, which come from the vanilla orchid plant, are known for their unique flavor profile and aromatic qualities. Let's explore the fascinating world of Dominican Republic vanilla beans.
History of Vanilla Cultivation in Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is one of the countries in the Caribbean that cultivates vanilla beans. The vanilla orchid, scientifically known as Vanilla planifolia, is the primary source of these beans.
These orchids thrive in the warm and humid tropical climate of the Dominican Republic. The country's diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to fertile valleys, provide ideal conditions for vanilla cultivation.
Divine Aromas and Flavoring
Dominican Republic vanilla beans are renowned for their distinct flavor and aroma. They are characterized by a rich, creamy, and sweet profile with subtle floral notes.
The aroma of these beans is intoxicating, often described as warm, comforting, and with a hint of caramel or even tobacco. The depth of their scent makes them a favorite among chefs and perfumers alike.
Culinary Uses
Vanilla from the Dominican Republic is highly sought after by chefs and bakers worldwide for its exceptional quality. It is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes.
In desserts, it enhances the flavor of ice creams, custards, cakes, and pastries. It can also be found in beverages like vanilla-infused cocktails and coffee.
The beans are prized for their ability to impart a unique and complex flavor profile that elevates the overall taste of dishes.
Sustainability and Challenges:
Like many agricultural products, vanilla cultivation in the Dominican Republic faces sustainability challenges. The labor-intensive process of hand-pollination and the vulnerability of vanilla plants to diseases and pests can make cultivation difficult.
Sustainable practices and fair trade initiatives are gaining traction in the Dominican Republic's vanilla industry, helping to improve the livelihoods of local farmers and ensure the long-term availability of this valuable crop.
The Vanilla Bean Rarity Index > Incredibly Rare
The Vanilla Bean Rare Index classifies beans according to their rarity based on location, farmer and vanilla bean type. These Planifolia Vanilla Beans from Dominican Republic are grown by farmers in remote regions and are in limited supply. Hence they are categorized as Incredibly Rare on the Vanilla Bean Rare Index.
In conclusion, vanilla beans from the Dominican Republic are cherished for their unique flavor and aroma, making them a prized ingredient in both culinary and perfumery circles. These beans represent the rich agricultural heritage of the Dominican Republic and continue to captivate the senses of people around the world.
Storage of Vanilla Beans
Vanilla beans should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container, separate from other spices. They should be kept away from heat, moisture, light, or air.
Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
For more information, check out our more detailed homemade extract guide
here: https://nativevanilla.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-make-vanilla-extract
Vanilla Extract Calculator for making extract
Calculate how much vanilla you need to make your extract.
https://nativevanilla.com/blogs/recipes/vanilla-extract-calculator
Customer Reviews
These beautiful beans arrived quickly and are packaged well. I am waiting for the Guatemalan rum I've ordered to get them extracting.
The Best Vanilla I have ever had. A+++++++
Prompt delivery and communication! Pretty beans in appearance and aroma! Looking forward to my next purchase. Thanks
These beans are a culinary revelation that stand out distinctly in the world of vanilla. Having tasted a plethora of vanilla beans from around the globe, it's a rare pleasure to find a product that not only surpasses expectations but sets a new benchmark for quality. Loma Azul's offering is precisely such a product.
At the heart of what makes these vanilla beans exceptional is their complex flavor profile. Unlike the more one-dimensional vanilla flavors we're accustomed to, these beans boast an intricate symphony of tastes. The initial aroma hints at the depth of character, with the scent of raisins and plums suggesting a richness that is both inviting and intriguing. Upon use, these notes unfold beautifully, mingling with the essence of dried fruit to create a rich, full-bodied vanilla experience that is unmatched by any other.
What is particularly striking about Loma Azul's vanilla is their texture and quality. They are plump, moist, and laden with seeds, indicating their freshness and premium grade. This quality ensures that they impart a more substantial vanilla flavor to any dish or dessert, elevating it from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Whether used in baking, brewing, or culinary creations, these beans infuse a depth of flavor that is both nuanced and bold.
In a market flooded with vanilla products of varying qualities, Loma Azul's Gourmet Vanilla Beans stand out for their exceptional flavor profile, superior quality, and the unique culinary experience they offer. Their notes of raisins, plums, and the richness of dried fruit make them a must-try for any food enthusiast or professional seeking to elevate their dishes. These beans are not just an ingredient; they are an experience, offering a taste of the Dominican Republic's rich agricultural heritage. Loma Azul's Gourmet Vanilla Beans, Grade A, are a rare find that truly transcends the ordinary, making them a superior choice for anyone passionate about the art of cooking and flavor.
These beans were all great beans. Nice and fresh. Took me several days to receive them due to the weather and when they came they were nice and plump