Vanilla was used by the Aztecs for flavoring their royal drink xocolatl, a mixture of cocoa beans, vanilla and honey.4
Vanilla has been considered both an aphrodisiac and a fever-reducer.4
Four regions produce different types of vanilla: Madagascar Bourbon vanilla, Indonesian vanilla, Mexican vanilla and Tahitian vanilla.5
Thomas Jefferson introduced vanilla to the United States in the late 1700s after discovering it while serving as the ambassador to King Louis XVI of France.6
The United States consumes approximately 1,200 tons of vanilla beans per year.6
When baking, be sure to cream the vanilla with shortening or butter because the fat will encapsulate the vanilla, preventing it from evaporating during the baking process.6
To make your own vanilla extract, place one whole vanilla bean cut in half lengthwise into 3/4 cup of vodka. Cover tightly and let steep for six months before using.1