French Vanilla vs Vanilla
Whenever people are in an ice-cream parlor and looking at the flavors to decide for themselves, vanilla remains one flavor that is equally popular among kids and old alike. In fact, no brand of ice cream makers can avoid this taste or flavor because of its universal appeal and attraction. However, there is another name that confuses many as to which of the two is original or older. Yes, we are talking about French vanilla that obviously has French origins and is equally popular in many parts of the world. Many have accepted the two flavors as being same as they cannot make out the differences. Let us find out the truth.
Vanilla
Vanilla happens to be the name of a genus of orchids grown in Mexico. The plants of this genus have traditionally been grown in Mesopotamian culture and later in Spanish cultures and their pods have been used to derive the flavor referred to as vanilla. There were several attempts to grow this orchid outside Mexico but failed because the pollinator of the plants, Melipona Bee could not be found outside Mexico. It was only in the middle of the 19th century that hand pollination was discovered, and the plant could be grown in many other parts of the world. Not many are aware of the fact that vanilla is a very expensive spice as its production is labor intensive. However, the flavor and aroma of vanilla is extremely popular all over the world, and this aroma is used not only in baking and ice creams but also, to treat ailments through aromatherapy.
French Vanilla
French vanilla is the term that is used to designate recipes and preparations originating in France that make use of vanilla in one or the other way. In fact, the unique manner of making ice cream with custard base using other ingredients such as eggs, cream and vanilla grains has given rise to an ice cream flavor that is referred to as French vanilla in different parts of the world. There is even syrup called French vanilla available in the market that mainly contains caramel, and butterscotch in a custard base with strong vanilla flavor. Also, custard having strong vanilla flavor is sold as French vanilla.
What is the difference between French Vanilla and Vanilla?
• French vanilla is yellow in color while vanilla is traditionally white.
• French vanilla has a custard base that contains egg yolks to give the ice cream a yellow color while vanilla has a base of cream.
• French vanilla needs to be heated when its custard base is prepared. On the other hand, there is no heating required to make the base of vanilla.
• Inclusion of eggs make the French vanilla thicker and creamier than vanilla.
• French vanilla fragrance is fruity while the fragrance of vanilla is floral.
• French vanilla is not a type of vanilla but the French manner of making vanilla ice cream.
• French vanilla is all about taste as well as aroma whereas vanilla is noted more for its taste.