At Moon Island, we offer two grades of black Bourbon vanilla pods (Vanilla planifolia) from the Comoros: Gourmet and TK. Both are 100% natural, with no additives or preservatives. They differ in pod size, moisture and aromatic profile.

Gourmet pods: vanilla with character

• Pods: thick, plump, supple and glossy
• Curing: at least 9 months
• Vanillin content: 1.8% to 2.4%
• Moisture content: 30 to 35%
• Dominant notes: dark chocolate, caramel, candied fruit

Hand-selected for their size, suppleness and moisture, they suit pastry chefs, chocolatiers and cooks looking for a vanilla with character. Discover the Gourmet pods

TK pods: a warm profile, a more accessible size

• Pods: thin to medium thickness, supple and fragrant
• Curing: more than 8 months
• Vanillin content: 1.5% to 2.2%
• Moisture content: 25 to 30%
• Dominant notes: honey, caramel, ripe fruit

The TK grade refers to pods that are slightly less plump than Gourmet vanilla. They hold up well in infusions, in a more accessible size. Discover the TK pods

In short

• You want thick, plump, glossy pods with notes of dark chocolate and candied fruit: choose Gourmet.
• You prefer a honey and caramel profile, with good performance in infusions and a more accessible size: choose TK.

How to use them

Split the pod lengthwise, scrape out the seeds and infuse in a fat or sweet base. Pods that have already been infused can be used to make vanilla sugar. Store them away from light and moisture, in an airtight container.

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