The Biography of Vanilla

Discover the rich history of this orchid bean used in such products as candy, ice cream, soft drinks, medicines, and yes, even chocolate! Follow the vanilla bean's journey from its discovery by the ancient civilizations of Mexico, to Europe where its flavorful secrets remained a mystery to Europeans even 300 years after they first encountered it.

What is vanilla?; Vanilla Lands; Ancient Vanilla; Conquering Vanilla; Crossing an Ocean; Vanilla Colonies; Growing Vanilla; Green Gold; Vanilla Tahitensis; A Great Decline; Flavouring the World; Threatening a Bean; Index and Glossary.