tonka bean

American  

[tong-kuh] / ˈtɒŋ kə /

noun

1. the fragrant, black almond-shaped seed of a tall tree belonging to the genus Dipteryx (orCoumarouna ), of the legume family, especially D. odorata, of tropical South America, used in perfumes, as a source of coumarin, and as a substitute for vanilla.

2. the tree itself.

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tonka bean British  

/ ˈtɒŋkə /

noun

1. a tall leguminous tree, Coumarouna odorata, of tropical America, having fragrant black almond-shaped seeds

2. the seeds of this tree, used in the manufacture of perfumes, snuff, etc

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Etymology

Origin of tonka bean

1790–1800; tonka probably < Tupi tõka

Example Sentences

But when it comes to cooking with tonka beans, the most common technique is to infuse them in liquid, namely milk, cream, custard or alcohol.

From Salon

Part of the Heritage Remixed collection, the new woodsy-fresh Aventus Cologne combines base notes of styrax, birch, musk and tonka bean to bring out your inner emperor.

From Los Angeles Times

Others are not only potentially hazardous to use, but also banned by federal regulation, like tonka beans or calamus, an herb.

From New York Times

The next layer is milk chocolate cremeux infused with tonka beans, topped with crispy coconut sugar.

From Washington Post

Garnish tart with white chocolate chantilly whipped to firm peaks, tonka bean caramel and crumbled graham crackers.

From Seattle Times