Tonka bean facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tonka bean |
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| Tonka Beans | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
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| Genus: |
Dipteryx
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| Species: |
D. odorata
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| Binomial name | |
| Dipteryx odorata (Aubl.) Willd.
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| Synonyms | |
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Coumarouna odorata Aubl. |
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The tonka bean is a special seed that comes from a flowering tree called Dipteryx odorata. This tree belongs to the pea family, also known as Fabaceae. Tonka beans are usually black and look a bit wrinkled on the outside. Inside, they have a smooth, brown center.
Contents
What Tonka Beans Are Used For
Tonka beans have a unique smell and taste. Because of this, people have used them in many ways over time.
Past Uses
In the past, tonka beans were sometimes used instead of vanilla. They were also popular in making perfumes. Some people even used them in tobacco products. However, due to certain natural chemicals in them, some countries have banned their use in food.
Modern Uses
Today, tonka beans are still used in some places. For example, in France, chefs sometimes use them in cooking. They add a special flavor to desserts and stews. Tonka beans are also still a common ingredient in many perfumes. The main countries that produce these seeds today are Venezuela and Nigeria.
Names for Tonka Beans
You might sometimes see tonka beans spelled as "Tonquin" or "Tonkin". These are just older ways of spelling the name. They have nothing to do with a place called Tonkin, which is now part of Vietnam.
Images for kids
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The smooth brown inside of the tonka bean
See also
In Spanish: Dipteryx odorata para niños
