What’s up with Mexican vanilla?
I’m going on a cruise next week, and already four different people have given me $20 to bring them a bottle of vanilla.
I asked them why, and no one can really explain it. I’m hoping someone here can.
Thanks.
I think it’s because it is cheaper down there for the non-synthetic vanilla. Usually in the US it’s fake, or the price is outrageous.
Here’s a link from Penzey’s Spices that explains a little about vanilla and how it is produced, with several references specifically to Mexican vanilla.
Oh…something I should probably mention…
Be sure when you are there that you are buying pure vanilla. There is a “vanilla” product commonly sold in Mexico that is actually made from/contains coumarin. It’s cheaper, tastes like crap, and I have heard that it can cause problems for people on certain medications.
Sorry to be lazy and not provide a cite, but I’m at work right now. Maybe someone who is better informed about that will happen along and shed some light.
Alrighty…I suppose it would be better if I actually remembered to include the link. :smack:
http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/p-penzeysvanilla.html
The Master himself has a word on Mexican vanilla: http://www.straightdope.com/columns/011207.html
Treat your Coke-loving friends to Mexican Coca-Cola, made with sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup. It’s supposed to be tastier.