Definition

1. Noun:
   • The seed of the tonka bean tree: A fragrant, black, almond-shaped seed from a tropical South American tree, used as a flavoring agent, in perfumery, and in some traditional medicines.
   • The tree itself: A tall tropical tree (Dipteryx odorata) native to South America, which produces pods containing these seeds.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Seed):

  • The recipe calls for a single grated tonka bean to impart a unique vanilla-like aroma.
  • Tonka bean is sometimes used in high-end perfumes for its warm, coumarin-rich scent.

• Noun (Tree):

  • The tonka bean grows wild in the forests of Brazil and Venezuela.

Advanced Usage

• As a flavoring substitute: Tonka bean is noted for its high concentration of coumarin, which gives it a sweet, vanilla-like, and slightly spicy flavor profile, leading to its use as a substitute for vanilla in some contexts.
  • Due to its intense flavor, only a small amount of tonka bean is needed.

Variants and Related Words

• Tonka bean tree: The specific tree species, , also known as .
• Coumarin: The organic compound responsible for the characteristic sweet smell of tonka beans.

Synonyms

• Seed: coumarou nut, tonka nut.
• Tree: cumaru tree, kumaru tree.

Important Note on Usage

• Regulatory status: In some countries, including the United States, the use of tonka bean as a food additive is banned or restricted by food safety agencies due to the coumarin content, which can be toxic in high doses. Its use is primarily in perfumery and non-ingestible products in those regions.
  • The sale of tonka beans for culinary use is prohibited in several countries.

Noun

1. tall tropical South American tree having pulpy egg-shaped pods of fragrant black almond-shaped seeds used for flavoring
2. fragrant black nutlike seeds of the tonka bean tree; used in perfumes and medicines and as a substitute for vanilla