Chocolate comes
from the beans taken from the pod of the tropical cacao tree (Theobroma cacao).
The word "Theobroma comes from the Greek for "Food of the Gods".
And many of us would agree it is just that!
"Chocolate" or
"Cocoa", as it
is known in some parts of the world, describes both raw and processed
foods and it is a common ingredient in many kinds of sweets, chocolate
candy, ice creams, cookies, cakes, pies, desserts, drinks and liquers.
It is one of the most popular flavors in the world.
Chocolate is made
from
the fermented, roasted, and ground beans taken from the pod of
the cacao tree. A native to Central America and
Mexico, it was discovered by ancient Mayas and Aztecs, but is now
cultivated throughout the tropics. The beans have an intensely
flavoured bitter taste.
It is the solid
and fat
combination, sweetened with sugar and other ingredients, that is made
into chocolate bars. It can also be made into beverages
(called cocoa and hot chocolate).
The first chocolate beverages were made by the Aztecs and the Mayas and
later the Europeans. Chocolate is often produced as small
moulded forms in the shape of animals, people, or inanimate objects to
celebrate festivals worldwide. For example, moulds of rabbits or eggs
for Easter, coins for Hanukkah, Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus) for
Christmas, and hearts for Valentine's Day.
Chocolate
is the Food of Love and Celebration. It is perfect to lift
the
spirits when sad, the body when tired, the heart when heavy, make a
child happy, or just anytime at all!
If
there was ever
an extra special taste sensation, chocolate has a universal appeal.
Though Europe and the USA remain the leading producers and consumers of
chocolate, this yummy confection is attracting more people and cultures
around the world. Now take chocolate and that relatively ancient
practice of fondue and a whole new dimension of entertainment erupts as
you gaze and dip into a cascading waterfall of chocolate.
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