Buy Tahitian Vanilla – Vanilla Tahitensis from Polynesia
- Original Tahitian Vanilla (Vanilla tahitensis) from French Polynesia
- Floral, musky aroma with fruity notes of cherry and plum
- Thick, fleshy pods with rich aromatic content
- Highly appreciated by professional chefs and culinary creatives
What Makes Tahitian Vanilla Special?
Tahitian Vanilla, botanically known as Vanilla tahitensis, is one of the most exclusive and sought-after vanilla varieties. It is grown in French Polynesia, particularly on the small island of Taha’a. Due to limited cultivation and complex production, only about 15 tons are harvested annually worldwide. The entire cultivation and pollination process is done manually, making these vanilla beans exceptionally rare.
Flavor Profile of Tahitian Vanilla
The taste of Tahitian Vanilla is considered exceptionally complex. It blends floral and musky notes with a fruity sweetness reminiscent of cherries and plums. Compared to Bourbon vanilla, it has a softer and more exotic aroma. This unique flavor composition makes it a favorite for both sweet and savory recipes.
Typical Uses in the Kitchen
Tahitian Vanilla is ideal for a wide range of culinary applications:
- Desserts like panna cotta, ice cream, and vanilla sauces
- Refining creams, mousses, and pastries
- Harmonizes well with seafood, sauces, or white meats
The pods can be split lengthwise to scrape out the seeds. The remaining pod can be used for infusing sugar, cream, or syrups.
Origin and Cultivation
Originally, vanilla is native to Mesoamerica. The Tahitian variety, however, is a hybrid of Vanilla aromatica and Vanilla fragrans. It has adapted perfectly to the tropical conditions of the South Pacific. In contrast to the natural pollination by Melipona bees in Mexico, vanilla plants in French Polynesia are pollinated by hand to ensure a successful harvest.
Why Is Tahitian Vanilla More Expensive?
The high price of Tahitian Vanilla is due to several factors:
- Labor-intensive hand pollination
- Limited cultivation area (mainly on Taha’a island)
- Small annual harvest volume
- Complex drying and processing techniques
Despite containing less vanillin than Bourbon Vanilla, its floral-fruity aroma makes it especially attractive for gourmet cuisine and high-end applications.
Storage Tips
To preserve the quality and aroma of Tahitian Vanilla:
- Store in airtight containers
- Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place
- Do not refrigerate to avoid mold formation
Properly stored pods retain their aroma and flexibility for up to two years or more.
Ingredients
100% dried whole vanilla pods (Vanilla tahitensis)
