Intro
Chocolate has a special place in our hearts, but not many people know about its deep-rooted history and the unique ways it is enjoyed around the world. Today, let’s journey to Oaxaca, a region in Southern Mexico, where chocolate is not just a treat, but a deeply ingrained part of their cultural fabric. Let’s delve into the intriguing world of Oaxacan chocolate.
A Journey Back in Time: The Mayans, Aztecs, and Chocolate
Have you ever wondered where chocolate comes from? It’s not just from a candy store! The tale of chocolate takes us on a journey back in time to the ancient Mayans and Aztecs. For these early civilizations, chocolate was much more than just a sweet treat.
Imagine this: You’re in the ancient Mayan society, and the people around you are grinding cacao beans. They mix these beans with water, honey, and even chili peppers to create a frothy, rich drink. This wasn’t like the sweet hot chocolate we’re used to. It was a special beverage, enjoyed during religious ceremonies and celebrations.
Now, let’s time-travel to the Aztec civilization. They saw such value in these small cacao beans that they used them as money! Yes, you heard it right, chocolate was so precious it was used to buy and trade items. It was a sign of wealth and status.
So, the next time you enjoy a piece of chocolate, remember its deep history. Think about the Mayans and Aztecs, and the special place chocolate held in their societies.
This amazing journey of cacao from being a ceremonial drink and valuable currency to becoming our favorite sweet delight is nothing short of remarkable. And that’s just the beginning, let’s keep exploring!
Crafting Magic: The Molienda Process
Chocolate making in Oaxaca is like watching a beautiful dance. The steps have been passed down through generations, and it all starts with a process known as molienda. It’s not just about making chocolate, it’s about keeping traditions alive.
The molienda starts with the roasting of the cacao beans. The beans pop and crackle, releasing a delicious aroma that fills the air. After roasting, the beans are then carefully ground into a thick, rich paste. This is done on a large stone mill, or metate as it’s known locally. It’s a tough job, but it’s worth it to get the perfect texture.
The next step in this dance is mixing. The cacao paste is combined with sugar and a touch of cinnamon. The result is a heavenly chocolate blend, ready to be crafted into many different forms. It can be poured into molds to create blocks or discs, known as “tablillas.” These can be used in cooking or to make the best hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted.
So, remember, every time you take a bite of Oaxacan chocolate, you’re not just enjoying a sweet treat. You’re tasting a piece of history, a tradition that has been preserved and passed down through generations. Isn’t that magical?
Adding Spice: The Role of Spices and Piloncillo
What makes Oaxacan chocolate stand out from the rest? It’s all in the spices! Picture this: You’re in a bustling Oaxacan kitchen, and you see a tray of warm, freshly made chocolate. But this isn’t just any chocolate. It’s been lovingly prepared with a blend of exotic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Some daring cooks even throw in a bit of chili for an exciting twist!
But the real secret star of Oaxacan chocolate is a sweet friend called piloncillo. This raw cane sugar, shaped like a small cone, packs a lot of flavor. When added to the chocolate, piloncillo melts down, giving off a rich, caramel-like taste that’s just the right amount of sweet.
Now, imagine biting into a piece of Oaxacan chocolate. First, you taste the deep, dark chocolate. Then comes a hint of spice, followed by the sweet, earthy notes from the piloncillo.
It’s a flavor journey like no other, a beautiful dance of sweet, spicy, and a tad bitter, all in one bite. This is the magic of Oaxacan chocolate, a tasty treasure that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history.
Oaxacan Chocolate in Different Forms: Tablitas, Tejate, Mole, and Hot Chocolate
Imagine stepping into a magical world where chocolate isn’t just a sweet snack but a key ingredient in a variety of treats and dishes. Welcome to Oaxaca! Here, chocolate takes center stage in several exciting ways. Let’s explore some of them.
Have you ever tried hot chocolate so rich and frothy it felt like a warm hug? That’s what you get when you dissolve “tablitas” in hot milk. Tablitas are small chocolate tablets, made from that heavenly blend of ground cacao, sugar, cinnamon, and piloncillo we talked about earlier.
Now, how about a refreshing drink that’s been a part of Oaxacan culture for hundreds of years? Say hello to Tejate. This traditional beverage is a mix of maize and cacao, often poured into vibrant gourd bowls for serving. It’s a special drink, connecting the Oaxacans to their ancient roots.
But don’t think chocolate is only for sweet dishes! It also plays a starring role in Mole, a thick, flavorful sauce that’s a staple in Mexican cuisine. Imagine a savory sauce with a hint of chocolate’s rich, deep flavor. It adds a unique twist to the dish, making it even more delicious.
So, you see, in Oaxaca, chocolate isn’t just a dessert. It’s a versatile ingredient that brings joy in many forms. Whether it’s a warm cup of hot chocolate, a refreshing bowl of Tejate, or a savory Mole dish, Oaxacan chocolate never fails to delight. It truly is a delicious piece of Oaxacan culture.
Where to Buy Authentic Oaxacan Chocolate
Are you wondering where to find this delicious Oaxacan chocolate? If you’re lucky enough to be in Oaxaca, make sure to stop by the bustling “20 de Noviembre” market. It’s like stepping into a chocolate lover’s dream! There, you’ll see stall after stall filled with fresh tablitas and ready-to-use mole paste.
But the real adventure is in watching the chocolate-making process in action. You can see this at the famous Chocolate Mayordomo, a place where Oaxacan chocolate is not just sold, but celebrated.
And don’t worry if you’re not in Oaxaca. The joy of tasting authentic Oaxacan chocolate can also be experienced from your home. Many online stores carry Oaxacan chocolate, ready to be delivered to your doorstep.
So, no matter where you are in the world, you can join the celebration of Oaxacan chocolate. Just remember, each bite is not just a treat, it’s a journey through time, a story of tradition, and a celebration of culture.