Vanilla paste is a popular ingredient in baking and cooking. Made by blending vanilla extract with a thickener, such as cornstarch, it has a more intense flavor than extract and contains small flecks of vanilla bean for added texture. One teaspoon (7 grams) of vanilla paste contains about 20 calories.
Vanilla paste is also a good source of antioxidants and has trace amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.
In this article, we'll explore the nutrition facts of vanilla paste, compare it to vanilla extract, and discuss the benefits, alternatives, and side effects of consuming it.
Vanilla paste nutrition facts
One teaspoon (7 grams) of vanilla paste contains: - 20 calories - 3 grams of carbohydrates
How many calories are in a teaspoon of vanilla paste?
One teaspoon (7 grams) of vanilla paste contains about 20 calories. This is a relatively small amount compared to other high-calorie ingredients commonly used in baking and cooking.
Serving size and calories
The serving size for vanilla paste is typically 1 teaspoon (7 grams). With only 20 calories per serving, it is a low-calorie ingredient that can be used in many dishes to add flavor without adding many calories. When using vanilla paste in recipes, be sure to follow the serving size and adjust the other ingredients accordingly to maintain the calorie content of the dish.
Vanilla paste and vanilla extract are both used to add vanilla flavor to dishes, but they have some differences: - Vanilla extract is made by steeping vanilla beans in alcohol and water. It has a thinner consistency than vanilla paste and contains no added thickeners. - Vanilla paste is made by combining vanilla extract with a thickener, such as cornstarch or xanthan gum, and may contain small flecks of vanilla bean for added texture.
Benefits of consuming vanilla paste
Vanilla paste offers some health benefits in addition to its flavor. Some potential benefits of consuming vanilla paste include: - Antioxidant properties that may help protect against cellular damage - Trace amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.
Alternatives to vanilla paste
If you don't have vanilla paste on hand, there are some alternatives you can use to add vanilla flavor to your dishes: - Vanilla extract - Vanilla powder
How to incorporate vanilla paste into your diet
Vanilla paste can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, including: - Baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries - Ice cream, yogurt, and other desserts
Vanilla paste in recipes
Here is a recipe that uses vanilla paste: - Vanilla paste cheesecake: Combine cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla paste in a mixing bowl. Pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust and bake in the oven until set. Let cool and serve chilled.
Vanilla paste shelf life and storage
Vanilla paste can typically be stored for up to 2 years in a cool, dry place like a pantry. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within a few months. To prevent the vanilla paste from drying out, store it in an airtight container or jar.
Possible side effects of consuming too much vanilla paste
While vanilla paste is generally safe to consume in moderation, consuming too much may lead to some side effects, such as: - Digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea - Headaches or dizziness
Vanilla, with its pleasing fragrance and flavor, can provide many health benefits. It is commonly used in traditional medicine practices to treat various ailments, from anxiety to acne.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vanilla Paste
1. What is Vanilla Paste?
Vanilla paste is a concentrated mixture made from vanilla beans, sugar, and a thickening agent such as cornstarch. It has a thick consistency and contains small flecks of vanilla bean seeds.
2. How is Vanilla Paste different from Vanilla Extract?
Vanilla paste contains more actual vanilla bean than vanilla extract, giving it a stronger and more complex vanilla flavor. It also has a thicker consistency and contains the seeds of the vanilla bean, which gives baked goods a speckled appearance.
3. How do I use Vanilla Paste in cooking and baking?
Vanilla paste can be used in the same way as vanilla extract, but in smaller quantities due to its concentrated nature. Use 1 teaspoon of vanilla paste for every 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract called for in a recipe. It is great for use in baked goods, frostings, ice cream, and custards.
4. Is Vanilla Paste more expensive than Vanilla Extract?
Vanilla paste is typically more expensive than vanilla extract due to the higher concentration of vanilla bean used in its production. However, because it is stronger and more flavorful, you may actually end up using less of it in the long run, making it a better value.
5. How should I store Vanilla Paste?
Store vanilla paste in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, it will keep for up to 6 months if stored properly. If it begins to dry out, stir in a few drops of water to restore its original consistency.