Cocoa is truly a treat for the heart and soul! Those who love cocoa know it’s an indulgence like no other, whether savoring it warm on a chilly winter day or enjoying it on a thick and chilly ice cream sundae. From its first use by the early Mayans of South America to its wide appreciation around the world now, cocoa has been a source of joy in many cultures, one that symbolizes comfort, connection, and even luxury. Waking up to the fragrant smell of cocoa brewing can give even the dullest of days some much needed delight. So here’s to your mug of delicious cocoa – cheers!
HISTORY OF DRINKING COCOA
Drinking cocoa is far from a modern phenomenon. In fact, cocoa beverages date back as early as 500 BC, where the Mayans are believed to have first made a beverage out of cocoa beans, chili peppers, and water – though with far less sweetness than the cups of hot chocolate we know today! Ancient Aztecs also created their own versions of cocoa drinks flavored with vanilla and other spices that they regarded as luxury items only meant for nobles and royalty. Fast forward to when Christopher Columbus brought coca beans back to Spain in 1585 AD – and by the 1600s cocoa beverages had spread throughout Europe and quickly become popular amongst many cultures as an energizing treat. And who can forget when chocolate became all the rage in 1815 after Van Houten invented a pressing technique that allowed for easier production of chocolate? A drinking cocoa revolution had begun!
FIVE THINGS ABOUT COCOA
- Cocoa has been around for centuries – the Mayan and Aztec civilizations cultivated it for medicine and drink as early as 5th century BC!
- Cocoa actually starts off as a white bean – its rich brown hue comes from when the beans are roasted.
- Cocoa butter is one of coconut oil’s greatest rivals – this creamy component is derived from the cocoa bean and helps make our favorite treats so melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Unlike coffee where many countries grow it, two countries take the crown in producing the most cocoa beans: Ivory Coast and Ghana.
- Every single Hershey Kiss ever produced has had a drop or two of real vanilla flavoring! Whether you’re a fan of dark chocolate or milk chocolate…you can thank vanilla extract for that gooey center!
HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL COCOA DAY
- 21 delicious hot cocoa recipes.
- Try some hot cocoa bombs.
- Make some hot cocoa gifts.
- Host a hot chocolate bar party.
- If you love the article image, purchase it on these fun products on Zazzle!
Note: If the above links do not direct you to the appropriate referral on the first try, return to the article and try again.
Do you have any ideas about how to celebrate this day? Please share them!
