Forget The Extract, Use The Bean

I just love the exotic flavour of the vanilla bean, err orchid pod.   Vanilla beans, or more appropriately, the long, thin, dried pods of an orchid have a unique and exotic flavor, much different than vanilla extract.   When using vanilla in a smoothie I use the seeds that are inside the bean. To get them out, simply slit the pod to remove the bean. Then slit the bean and scrape out the tiny seeds into the smoothie.   The remainder of the bean can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months when wrapped tightly and stored in an air tight container.