Definition: What Is Cocoa?
Cocoa is made from the fermented, dried, and roasted seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree. Once roasted, the beans are cracked and separated from their shells, then ground into cocoa mass or powder. This forms the foundation for a wide array of culinary delights – from rich drinking chocolate and artisan truffles to unsweetened cocoa powder for baking and cooking. Cocoa reveals many faces: sometimes sweet and creamy, other times bold and earthy.
From Tree to Treat: How Cocoa Is Made
The term "cocoa" refers to both the plant and the products derived from its beans. One of the most intriguing innovations for tea lovers is cocoa shell tea – an infusion made from the outer husks of the cocoa bean. With a flavour reminiscent of dark chocolate and a naturally subtle sweetness, it offers a more refined, less sugary alternative to traditional hot chocolate.
Cocoa shell tea has gained popularity as part of a sustainable approach to using the whole bean. Rather than discarding the shells, they’re steeped in hot water to create a warming, aromatic brew – a mindful indulgence with a full-bodied character.
In tea tastings, cocoa is often paired with robust black teas like Assam or floral oolongs, enhancing the sensory experience. In fine dining, cocoa is no stranger either – it lends depth to savoury dishes and elevates desserts with its complex flavour profile.
A Storied Past: The Journey of the Cocoa Bean
Cocoa’s roots trace back to the Amazon basin in Ecuador. The ancient Maya and Aztecs revered it as a sacred drink, preparing it as a bitter, frothy concoction with water, chilli, and spices – no sugar in sight. They used a wooden whisk called a molinillo to create foam, a precursor to today’s milk frothers.
With European colonisation, cocoa made its way to the West, where it was initially a luxury item. It wasn’t until the 19th century that industrial processing made cocoa widely accessible. Today, major producers include Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Peru, Ecuador, and Indonesia.
Did You Know? Cocoa’s Hidden Talents
- Cocoa ceremonies are used in spiritual practices to open the heart and release emotional blockages – a meditative ritual with ancient roots.
- Cocoa shell tea is a hidden gem for tea enthusiasts: naturally caffeine-free yet gently uplifting – perfect for winding down in the evening. Simply steep the dried shells in hot water for around 10 minutes to unlock their mellow, chocolatey aroma.
- Cocoa and tea are a match made in heaven: bold black teas like Assam, smoky Lapsang Souchong, or earthy Pu-erh pair beautifully with dark chocolate in food pairings.
- Cocoa is considered a nutrient-rich superfood, packed with antioxidants and boasting a distinctive, mood-lifting aroma.
