Tonka Beans
What A small, wrinkled little black bean, its smell could be mistaken for vanilla and is occasionally used in perfume and was once used in tobacco. It's banned in the USA though, because it contains coumarin, which can be lethal in large doses. That aside, a little tonka can add amazing qualities to sweets and pastries.
Buy it at Herbie's Spices, 745 Darling Street, Rozelle 2039. (At the Lilyfield end of Darling Street)
(02 9555 6035)
Try them at Bentley Bar, 320 Crown St, Surry Hills 2010. (02 9332 2344).