Just vanilla

Dull? Boring? Plain? Vanilla is a byword for something which is ordinary or standard. In this programme Ruth Alexander finds the story of the popular spice is anything but normal. Originating in Mexico it’s travelled the globe and taken over, and is now one of the most valuable commodities available. It’s gone from being highly sought after and the height of luxury – even serving as an aphrodisiac for Mesoamericans and a European monarch - to ubiquitous and considered “regular”. Despite its reputation there is still a lot to appreciate about this complex flavour, and fans in one ice cream parlour are keen to make sure it isn’t overlooked. Presenter: Ruth Alexander Producers: Nina Pullman and Hannah Bewley (Image: A vanilla bean and flower. Credit: Getty Images)