Cacao isn’t just a food – it’s an experience. The taste and aroma are mouth-watering, but they’re only part of what makes the experience of consuming cacao so special. If you want to treat yourself or someone you love with something extra-special, ceremonial grade cacao is what you’re looking for!
The cacao bean is one of the most delicate beans in the world. It has to be adequately fermented and dried at the right temperature, or it will lose its flavour. Ceremonial grade cacao is usually organic, raw, fair trade, and has no added sugars, fillers, or preservatives. The best thing about it? You only need a small amount to get your chocolate fix!
There are a few different factors to consider when determining if ceremonial cacao is safe to consume. It’s important to note that not all cacao is created equal, and some types of cacao may be unsafe to eat. The most important thing you can do before eating any type of cacao (ceremonial or otherwise) is to find out where it comes from. Ideally, you should purchase your ceremonial cacao from a company that sources beans from farmers in their own country. Secondly, ensure the beans are organic and grown without pesticides or herbicides. Finally, make sure the container specifies which variety of cacao it contains- whether it’s criollo, forastero, or trinitarian. These three varieties all taste different, but they each offer unique health benefits.
One of the best ways to enjoy cacao is in its raw form. This means consuming it in powder form or as nibs, rather than brewed into a hot chocolate drink. Raw cacao has many benefits and will also taste better than any other type of cacao since it hasn’t been processed. As with any food that you consume on a regular basis, make sure that you eat them in moderation and make sure that they are part of a balanced diet. It’s important to be mindful of how often you use cacao, and also limit your intake when possible. For some people, this might mean enjoying it once per week, while others may only have it one time per month. The bottom line is that everyone should decide for themselves what works best for their body. Regardless of how much cacao you have each day, try not to exceed 100 grams total (or five tablespoons) at any given time. Some people might need more than others, depending on their weight and metabolic rate, but this seems like a good baseline number to keep in mind if you’re going out of your way to buy ceremonial grade cocoa beans!
Ceremonial grade cacao is a tasty treat to make your special occasions more festive. One of the most popular ways to enjoy this chocolate is in the form of hot chocolate. Simply pour some milk over your favourite ceremonial cacao and stir until it is melted. Top with whipped cream, sprinkle cinnamon on top, or add mini marshmallows to create an extra-special treat! Another great way to enjoy this chocolate is in a dessert recipe that combines it with another favourite food.
This is a special treat that you can enjoy once in a while. If you want to really indulge, try eating it with dark chocolate and fruit. It’s perfect for a hostess gift or as a special treat to share with the people you love. If you’re looking for a way to show someone how much they mean to you, this might just be the way to do it!
Main photo: Immo Wegmann/unsplash.com
