Vanilla beans are long, thin pods harvested from the vanilla orchid, known for their rich, sweet aroma and flavor. Inside the pod are tiny seeds, which are scraped out and used in cooking and baking to infuse a deep vanilla essence into desserts like cakes, ice cream, and custards. Vanilla beans are prized for their pure, natural flavor, making them a popular choice for gourmet recipes. They can also be split and steeped in liquids, like milk or cream, to enhance the flavor of beverages or sauces. Vanilla beans are more aromatic and flavorful than vanilla extract, offering a luxurious, authentic taste. Though more expensive, they are favored by chefs and bakers for their quality and rich flavor profile.