According to the World Cocoa Foundation, the Spanish conquistadors learned about cocoa when they invaded America and added spices and sugar to it. After that, the popularity of sweet hot chocolate soared, and although the Spaniards tried to keep the method of its creation a secret (which they successfully did for 100 years), they could not hide it. Hot chocolate quickly spread among the European and world elite. Solid chocolate was invented by Joseph Fry when he discovered that adding cocoa butter to cocoa powder forms a solid mass. Later, Daniel Peter, a Swiss chocolatier (and neighbor of Henri Nestlé) experimented with adding condensed milk to chocolate, and milk chocolate was born.
What chocolate to choose?
Dark chocolate is not only more vegan than milk or white chocolate, but also a healthier option. Most commercial chocolate bars, vegan and non-vegan, contain a ton of sugar and fat. However, dark chocolate has more cocoa powder and fewer other ingredients.
According to one version, regular consumption of a small amount of dark chocolate helps to improve health. Cocoa contains compounds called flavanols, which, according to the British Nutrition Foundation, help improve blood pressure and stabilize cholesterol levels.
To be truly healthy, some suggest eating only organic raw cacao and not chocolate. However, it’s all a matter of balance, a little dark chocolate is not a crime.
If you want to indulge responsibly, choose dairy-free dark chocolate with the highest possible cocoa content and low fat content.
What to cook with chocolate?
cocoa balls
Add the walnuts, oatmeal and cocoa powder to a blender and blend well. Add dates and a teaspoon of peanut butter and beat again. When the mixture becomes thick and sticky, lightly wet your hands and roll the mixture into small balls. Chill the balls in the refrigerator and serve.
Avocado chocolate mousse
It only takes five ingredients to make this delicious, healthy dessert. In a blender, combine ripe avocado, a little cocoa powder, almond milk, maple syrup and vanilla extract.
Coconut hot chocolate
Combine the coconut milk, dark chocolate and some maple syrup or agave nectar in a saucepan in a saucepan. Put on low fire. Stir constantly until the chocolate has melted. Add a small pinch of chili powder, stir and serve in your favorite mug.
How to choose vegan chocolate
To enjoy the taste of chocolate without harm to animals and the planet, avoid the following ingredients in chocolate.
Milk. Its presence is usually written in bold type, since milk is considered an allergen (like most products derived from it).
Powdered milk whey. Whey is one of the milk proteins and is a by-product of cheese production.
Rennet extract. Rennet is used in the production of some whey powders. This is a substance obtained from the stomachs of calves.
Non-vegan flavors and additives. Chocolate bars may contain honey, gelatin, or other animal products.
Palm oil. Although it is a non-animal product, due to the consequences of its production, many people avoid consuming palm oil.