Tonka bean: an aromatic treasure from Amazonia

Tonka bean is much more than just a spice. It is an invitation to a sensory voyage, combining the richness of an Amazonian terroir with a rare aromatic complexity. Used for centuries in the culinary and medicinal traditions of South America, this mysterious bean is now a fixture in gourmet kitchens the world over. Appreciated for its warm, enveloping notes ofbitter almond, vanilla, caramel and cocoa, it enhances both sweet and savory creations.

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A natural origin, between tradition and biodiversity

The name “Tonka” comes from the Tupi language, spoken by the Tupi people of French Guiana. It comes from the cumaru, a giant tree that can reach 30 meters in height, which grows in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, a veritable reserve of biodiversity.

The orange, mango-shaped fruits of the cumaru contain a unique seed: the Tonka bean.

• Hand-picked,

• Long drying time (up to one year),

• Maceration in alcohol for 24 hours,

• Then final drying to obtain their black, wrinkled and fragrant appearance.

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An enchanting fragrance of unique complexity

Tonka bean offers a rich olfactory and gustatory bouquet:

• Vanilla,

• Bitter almond,

• Burnt caramel,

• Blond tobacco,

• Cocoa bean.

It exudes a subtle sweetness, long on the palate, that brings elegance and originality. It’s a refined alternative to vanilla, less sweet and deeper.

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An invaluable ally in pastry-making and creative cooking

Finely grated, it is the perfect flavouring for pastries:

• Chocolate ganaches,

• Crèmes brûlées, custards,

• Mousses, panna cotta, entremets,

• Cookies, madeleines, cakes,

• Ice creams and sorbets.

Combined with chocolate, it reveals powerful notes and intensifies the cocoa experience.

Savoury cooking:

• With white fish and shellfish,

• White meats, roasted vegetables,

• Sweet potato or parsnip purée,

• Creamy sauces, Asian broths.

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Directions for use and storage

• Very aromatic: use sparingly.

• Grate with a microplane just before or after cooking.

• Or infuse in milk, cream or syrup, then strain.

Storage:
Protect from light, heat and humidity, in an airtight container. It will keep for several months without losing its qualities.

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A rare product for enthusiasts

Tonka bean is a gem of a plant, between tradition and modernity, gourmandise and sophistication.

Perfect for :

• Chefs,

• Pastry chefs,

• Artisan chocolatiers,

• Cooking enthusiasts.

It evokes discreet luxury, culinary innovation, and the quest for the right, pure taste.

FAQ

1. What is Tonka bean?
   This aromatic seed comes from the fruit of the cumaru, an Amazonian tree. It is dried, macerated and then re-dried to develop rich, complex aromas.

2. Where does Tonka bean come from?
   It comes from the Amazon rainforests of Venezuela, Brazil and French Guiana. It is traditionally used by indigenous peoples.

3. What aromas does Tonka bean have?
   It releases warm notes of vanilla, bitter almond, caramel, blond tobacco and cocoa bean. It is both intense and balanced.

4. What is it used for in cooking?
   It is used to flavor ganaches, creams, entremets, cookies, ice creams, but also certain savory dishes such as fish, white meats or sweet purées.

5. How do I use it properly?
   Grate it finely with a microplane in small quantities (it is very powerful), or infuse it in a liquid (cream, milk, syrup), then filter.

6. Can it be used in place of vanilla?
   Yes, it is an original alternative to vanilla, bringing greater complexity and aromatic depth.

7. How long can you keep it?
   Stored away from light, humidity and air, in an airtight container, it easily keeps for several months.

8. Is Tonka bean edible in large quantities?
   It should be used in moderation, as it contains coumarin, a powerful aromatic compound. In everyday culinary use, it presents no risk.

9. How much to use in a recipe?
   Half a bean is usually enough to flavor a 500 ml to 1 l cream or paste. Its aroma is highly concentrated.

10. Is Tonka bean suitable for professionals?
    Absolutely. It is highly prized by chefs, pastry chefs and chocolatiers for its sophisticated aromatic profile and its ability to enhance desserts and savoury dishes alike.

Weight	0.100 kg
Dimensions	7 × 7 × 8.5 cm