On December 13th, we sip and celebrate the richness of cocoa and try out new recipes as we indulge on its warmness touch. Cocoa beans are the key ingredient of all forms of chocolate.
Fun Fact: According, to Baptist Health — "Cocoa is rich in micronutrients polyphenols and powerful antioxidants flavanols, which help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol and blood sugars."
Over at WorldCocoaFoundation, “Cocoa and other [chocolatey products are consumed by billions of people around the world] and it was first developed as a simple crop in [many] South American cultures,” and there’s even evidence of cocoa-based foods dating back a few thousand years back
Ever wondered how the word, ‘Chocolate’ came about? Well, it “stems from two words in Nahuatl, the language spoken by many native groups: chocolatl, which translated literally means “hot water,” and cacahuatl, which referred to a bitter beverage made with cocoa that was shared during religious ceremonies. The cacao bean was so significant to the local cultures that it was used as a currency in trade, given to warriors as a post-battle reward, and served at royal feasts.”
My all-time favorite drink comes from Nestlé ABUELITA Hot Chocolate Drink as it brings me back a sense of nostalgia as I recall my babysitter always making me the S'mores hot chocolate drink on chilly days.
Here's the link on how to prepare their infamous, S'MORES HOT ABUELITA CHOCOLATE