It’s Illegal to Cook with Tonka Beans in the U.S., but Chefs Do it Anyway

Has it really been over 10 years since FDA G-Men raided Alinea, demanding Grant Achatz give up the tonka beans used in his famed sponge cake with dried cherries and vanilla?

Back then, it was a surprise that these little tropical legumes with a sorcerously beguiling aroma (seriously—...