Chocolate and food blog
South Yorkshire’s Sweet Legacy
Celebrate South Yorkshire’s rich confectionery heritage at the Yorkshire Chocolate Festival! Dive into a world of indulgence with artisan chocolatiers, interactive workshops, and delicious treats, all inspired by local icons like Thorntons and author Joanne Harris. Join us for a day of chocolate, community, and fun!
Chocolate Adventures in Donegal: A Weekend at Arnold’s Hotel
Chocolate Adventures in Donegal: A Weekend at Arnold’s Hotel
Indulge in an unforgettable chocolate journey at Arnold’s Hotel in the heart of Dunfanaghy, County Donegal, along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way. Join award-winning chocolatier David Greenwood-Haigh and renowned pastry chef Phil Matthews for a weekend brimming with chocolate tasting, hands-on truffle making, and Fairtrade chocolate lollipop crafting for kids. Savour a cocoa-infused dinner, luxurious Chocotinis, and discover the stories behind chocolates from around the world. Ideal for chocolate lovers of all ages, this is a rich, sensory adventure you won’t want to miss. Book your sweet escape at Arnold’s Hotel and experience chocolate like never before!
The Evolution of Cacao Ceremonies: From Ancient Ritual to Modern Wellness
When we think of cacao today, we often imagine a warm cup of rich hot chocolate or luxurious bars of creamy chocolate. However, cacao’s story stretches far beyond this, rooted in the sacred practices of ancient Mesoamerican cultures. What’s interesting is that while cacao held ceremonial importance for thousands of years, the idea of the cacao ceremony as we understand it today is a much more modern concept.
Cocoa travels to Fernando Po
In the heart of the 19th century, the world was buzzing with tales of a new crop that promised wealth and prosperity: cocoa.
Far across the Atlantic, in the rich, fertile soils of the Amazon Basin, this "food of the gods" had long been cherished.
But it wasn't until European explorers and colonists ventured into these lands that cocoa began its extraordinary journey to distant shores.
Inclusions: Adding Value, Minimising Cocoa Dependency
Inclusions, those delightful surprises nestled within the chocolate, offer a versatile canvas for innovation. By incorporating nuts, dried fruits, fudge, and other delectable ingredients, chocolatiers can create unique flavour profiles that excite our taste buds and add texture without relying solely on chocolate.
The Role of Sonic Symphony in Taste Perception
In the pursuit of crafting chocolate experiences that transcend the ordinary, we often explore innovative techniques to enhance taste perception.
One such frontier gaining traction in the world of chocolate is the integration of the sonic symphony – we know from my earlier post that harnessing the power of sound to elevate the enjoyment of chocolate tasting is important. In this article, we unwrap to discover the fascinating realm of sonic symphony and its potential to redefine the way we perceive and appreciate chocolate.
"Cocoa Chronicles: Meeting Mr. Jones in the Heart of Ghana"
Embark on a captivating journey through Ghana's lush cocoa groves with Mr. Jones. Explore his well-traveled life, intertwined with the rich history of cocoa, as we uncover a cross-cultural connection amidst the thriving landscapes. Discover the poignant tales of Mr. Jones' connection to his roots through the art of pruning and the rhythmic hum of laundry work. Join us in celebrating the interconnectedness of lives, where every encounter unfolds unexpected stories. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary tapestry of humanity—one cocoa-scented encounter at a time.
Redeeming the 82%: Cocoa Flour's Antioxidant Power
In the world of chocolate and cocoa, we often focus on the delicious final products like bars and truffles, but what if I told you that there's a hidden gem within the cocoa bean that's often overlooked? Enter cocoa flour, a true superhero in the realm of antioxidants.
Understanding Dutching in Cocoa Processing
As an award-winning chef and chocolate consultant, I often receive inquiries about Dutching in cocoa processing. What exactly is it? What purpose does it serve, and is it a desirable practice in chocolate production?
Have you ever pondered what sets your chocolate creations apart or noticed the variations in cocoa powders on the market? The answer may lie in Dutch-processed cocoa.