Vanilla Caviar vs Vanilla Nectar: The Difference
Appellation and Authenticity Differences
Vanilla Caviar
The term " Vanilla Caviar » is widely used by various producers, often without regard to the production method used. Some products contain seeds directly from the scraping of the pods, but many are treated to improve their visual appearance. These treatments include:
. Washing with water, which can alter the natural quality of the seeds.
. Addition of chemical agents such as sodium alginate or calcium chloride.
In addition, the containers, often made of glass and covered with labels, do not effectively protect the vanilla seeds against oxidation and loss of aroma.
Nectar
The Appellations « Pure Vanilla Nectar " and " Crystallized Vanilla Nectar » are registered trademarks of La Villa Michaëlla, guaranteeing quality and a uniform production method:
. The seeds come exclusively from manual scraping of the pods.
. No additives or preservatives are added; the product is 100% natural.
The Nectar is packaged in an “All-Protect” container (patent pending) which offers optimal protection against external aggressions while improving the organoleptic properties over time. This particular improvement feature allows the introduction of the concept of an annual “Cuvée” for the Nectars.
Vanilla Species Used
Vanilla Caviar
Vanilla Caviar can be derived from a variety of vanilla beans grown around the world. The quality of the beans therefore depends heavily on the variety used, which can be difficult for a lay consumer to assess.
Having been on the market for some time, unfortunately vanilla caviar has developed a reputation for poor olfactory quality.
Nectar
Le Nectar de Vanille est produit à partir d’une variété unique : « lHARMONIA« , un hybride entre les espèces Planifolia et Tahitensis. Cette variété a été développée grâce à une collaboration entre les gouvernements français et malgache sur une période de 45 ans. La Villa Michaëlla est l’unique producteur à cultiver exclusivement cette variété, offrant ainsi une qualité constante et exceptionnelle.
Taste and Aroma Experience
Caviar Seeds
Relatively small in diameter, giving the caviar a pasty appearance. The flavors are mainly contained in the skin of the pod, making the seeds themselves not very tasty when eaten as is.
Nectar Seeds
With a diameter greater than that of Caviar grains (ie. planifolia), they are more pleasant in the mouth. Their olfactory intensity is clearly higher. They are edible as is. and offer an explosion of flavors and aromas when bitten into, providing a unique sensory experience.
Dosage and use and Conservation
Dosage
Vanilla Nectar being relatively concentrated:
1 g of Nectar is enough to prepare approximately 4 servings of dessert; or approximately 1/4 teaspoon
Conservation
Unlike many vanilla products, Vanilla Nectar (Pure or Crystallized) does not require no special care. It can be stored simply in a cabinet for baking ingredients. This is thanks to the All-Protect process.
Above all, do not refrigerate or freeze. Just close the container well after and between uses.
