Many have become aware of the potential health benefits of including chocolate in their diet. But have you heard of brewing cocoa? Without actually seeing and experiencing brewing cocoa, it is hard to understand what this “healthy chocolate” is. Many liken brewing cocoa to cocoa in its processed powder form that dissolves easily in liquid. I am going to explain how it’s different and how it may be worth your while to give it a try.
Cacao or cocoa, which is it?
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| Brewing Cocoa Grounds |
The terms cacao (pronounced “Ka-Kow”) and cocoa are often used interchangeably for the famous bean that gives chocolate bars their unique chocolaty taste. While both terms are technically correct, “cacao” is most often associated with an unprocessed form of the cacao bean while “cocoa” is used to describe the processed form of cacao. Brewing cocoa is cacao that has been roasted and ground to be brewed like coffee. It is delicately roasted and then coarsely ground to produce a grind with very distinct particles of cocoa. The secret is in the roasting and grinding process. Special grinders are necessary since a typical coffee grinder would melt the cacao beans. Unlike coffee, cocoa will maintain its freshness and taste even in a ground state. However, it is important to store ground cocoa in an air-tight container to protect it from environmental contaminants.
Is brewing cocoa chocolate?
Chocolate is made from the cacao bean; however, there are many other ingredients added to chocolate including sugar, milk, and vegetable fat. Brewing cocoa also originates from the cacao bean, but it has no added sugar, flavorings, or fats. It is 100% pure cocoa.
Additionally, brewing cocoa is quite different than gourmet cocoa powder that is found in the baking section of a grocery store, such as Ghirardelli premium cocoa powder. Cocoa powder is the remaining solids after cocoa butter is separated out. This results in a fine unsweetened powder that easily dissolves in hot liquid. Brewing cocoa; however, does not go through the separation process; therefore, the grounds do not dissolve in hot liquid. The minimal processing of brewing cocoa allows for preservation of the beneficial flavanols, nutrients, and antioxidants!
Why brewing cocoa is considered a super food:
- 100% premium cacao.
- Loaded with antioxidants that strengthens the immune system.
- ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) score over 6375 IU per 6 ounce cup. An ORAC score is an analysis that measures the antioxidant levels in foods. A high ORAC score means the food is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help to eliminate oxygen free radicals that help us fight diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Cocoa is heart healthy - Recent research demonstrates beneficial effects of cocoa on blood pressure, insulin resistance, and vascular and platelet function. This is important in reducing your risk of cardiovascular problems such as stroke or heart attack.
- Cocoa is energizing! It contains theobromine, a natural non-addicting, energizing stimulant. Cocoa gives you an energy boost with little or no caffeine.
- Brewing cocoa only has 10 calories per 6 oz cup – It contains no sugar, no chemicals, no dairy, it reduces hunger, and according to Dr Oz, it boosts metabolism and helps to burn fat faster.
Brewing cocoa is easily brewed like coffee. Whether you’re using a French Press or an auto-drip coffee maker with a permanent filter, just follow the same directions as you would to make coffee. You can even mix your favorite coffee grounds with brewing cocoa, making a brew all your own! Brewing cocoa is definitely more similar to coffee in consistency than tea; however, if made too weak, it could take on a tea-like appearance and flavor. It is recommended to brew it longer for a more robust flavor. I have found the best results brewing Crio Brü cocoa in a French press for about 10 minutes. You can drink brewing cocoa plain or you can add a little honey and creamer to bring out a deep chocolate flavor. Brewing cocoa is excellent as a hot or an iced beverage.
Where to Buy
I am aware of two companies who currently sell brewing cocoa: Crio Brü and Choffy. I personally have only tasted the Crio Brü brewing cocoa. The varieties currently on the market are single-origin, meaning they originate from one country, they are not blended. For example, Crio Brü’s Vega Real is an organic cocoa which originates from the Dominican Republic and Crio Brü Coca River is an organic cocoa originating from Ecuador. Each varietal has its own deliciously unique complex chocolaty flavors! Brewing cocoa is priced similar to specialty coffee.
So, if you are in search of a delicious and satisfying coffee alternative, you should definitely consider healthy and delicious brewing cocoa; it not only tastes good, it is good for you! Choffy is available from direct marketing distributors while Crio Brü is available in a variety of grocery stores, such as Whole Foods in Utah; specialty shops like Southern Season; in coffee shops; or online at Criobru.com.
If you have had the opportunity to try brewing cocoa, please let me know which varietal is your favorite.
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