Make Vanilla Extract

Step 23 Vanilla Beans of Different Origins - Where to Buy...

This Instructable has spawned its own site. Check out the updated article with more image galleries at www.vanillareview.com.

These are generally the cheapest sources for vanilla beans. If you just want common Madagascar or PNG vanilla, eBay is usually the best way to go. If you are looking for more exotic beans (Uganda, Mexican, Tongan, etc) then the specialty vendors are your best source.

** The cheapest might not be the best, see my reviews for more details. **

Planifolia
Madagascar
Grade A: Vanilla Products USA eBay (6-7") - $12.45 per 1/4 pound
Grade B: Vanilla Products USA eBay - $5.99 per 1/4 pound (request by email)

Papua New Guinea
Grade A: The Organic Vanilla Bean Company (7-8") - $10.00 per 1/4 pound
Grade A: Amadeus Trading Co (6-8") - $11.50 per 1/4 pound
Grade B: The Organic Vanilla Bean Company - $8.00 per 1/4 pound
Grade B: Vanilla Products USA eBay - $5.99 per 1/4 pound

Indonesia
Grade A: Amadeus Trading Co (6-8") - $11.75 per 1/4 pound

Mexico
Grade A: Beanilla.com (7-8") - $28.95 per 25 beans (~1/4 pounds)

Tonga
Grade A: Beanilla.com - $45 per 25 beans (~1/4 pound)

Uganda
Grade A: Amadeus Trading Co (min 6.7") - $24.49 per 1/4 pound
Grade B: Amadeus Trading Co (Organic Grade 1, uneven) - $18.75 per 1/4 pound

The 'Longest Bean'
The Organic Vanilla Bean Company (8"+) - $12.45 per 1/4 pound

Tahitensis
Papua New Guinea
Grade A: The Organic Vanilla Bean Company (7"+) - $10.00 per 1/4 pound
Grade A: Vanilla Products USA eBay - $5.99 per 1/4 pound
Grade B: Vanilla Products USA eBay - $11.99 per 1 pound (1/4 pound not available)

Tahiti
Grade A: Arizona Vanilla Co (7-8") - $59.95 per 1/4 pound