Tonka beans are the seeds of the tonka tree fragrant. It can be found under various other names, such as Mexican vanilla, Tonkinese beans, tonka beans. In its natural environment, it grows mainly in Central America and northern South America.
Mexican vanilla may remind many people of raisins. It’s small, it has oblong, almond-shaped and dark, even black in color. The seeds give off a strong but sweet and pleasant scent. Additionally, it has an intense flavor.
A spice is made from Mexican vanilla seeds the aroma resembles a mixture of classic vanilla, licorice and cut grass. Unfortunately, due to its properties, distribution and use prohibited tonka beans, e.g. in the United States.
Tonka beans are dangerous because they contain large amounts of coumarin. This ingredient consumed in excess can lead to many serious complications. Among other things, spice may damage parenchymal organs, such as the liver and kidneysdisturbing their proper functioning. Mexican vanilla can lead to development of liver cirrhosis, liver or lung cancer.
Tonka beans can be dangerous to human life also due to its antithrombotic properties. An overdose may cause uncontrolled bleeding. It starts with light bleeding, e.g. bleeding gums. Over time, however, they may turn into extensive internal bleeding. In the worst case scenario, it may happen even to cerebral hemorrhage and death.
Despite this, Mexican vanilla and spices are based on it easily available in Poland. However, the European Union has introduced restrictions on seeds and coumarin. According to regulations, the content of a poisonous substance may not exceed 2 mg per 1 kg of product. The safe dose of coumarin that can be consumed per day is 0.1 mg per 1 kg of body weight.
Tonka beans are most often used as a substitute for the traditional vanilla pod. So it will work well as an addition to cakes, cookies, fruit desserts and puddings. You can prepare homemade spices with spices vanilla ice cream.
In addition tonka beans may be used for savory dishes. It goes best with seafood, especially from overheatingfarts and mussels. Some people also add it to meats such as beef and pork.
Source: lek.to, elektroia.pl, Terazgotuje.pl
