Cacao de El Salvador – Part 3 (JEZ Chocolate)
November 27, 2019
Typically, cacao is grown in one part of the world while chocolate is manufactured and consumed in another. If you live in the United States, chances are the chocolate you’re eating is made from cacao gown in Africa or South America even though it was made in Switzerland or Pennsylvania.
Although it is rare, there are exceptions to this situation. In El Salvador, for example, chocolate shops are crafting chocolate bars, truffles, and hot cocoa drinks from the cacao grown in El Salvador. Sometimes, the business owner grows the cacao too.
Cacao de El Salvador – Part 2
October 23, 2019
A couple months ago I traveled to El Salvador to learn more about how reviving a traditional and ancient agricultural practice can generate income through sustainable environmental and economical development. What on earth am I talking about? Something near and dear to my heart. The Food of the Gods – el Cacao!
I begin at the beginning, following a community of farmers through the process of growing, harvesting, and preparing cacao beans for market...
Cacao de El Salvador – Part 1
September 30, 2019
I have so much good news to share about what’s going on in El Salvador! I spent a little over a week traveling in the eastern part of the country learning first hand from farmers and processors about the benefits and challenges of growing cacao in their region.
My head is bursting with all that I heard, saw and yes, tasted. As a result, I’m going to publish a series of blog posts about it all. My hope is to take everything currently trapped in my brain and write it down. And share some interesting stories and photos with you all.
CocoVaa – Again and Again!
September 21, 2019
Earlier this year I posted a blog about chocolatier extraordinaire, Syovata Edari, and her award-winning fine chocolates. I had received a large gift box at Christmas, and my tasting experience left quite an impression on me. The “Ohhhh yeah, this is incredible!” kind of impression. I knew there was going to be a visit to CocoVaa in my future.
Chocolate Gift Basket and Tasting
August 26, 2019
On occasion I get asked to donate my time and expertise to lead a local “Chocolate Tasting” class/event (or a Chocolate and Wine pairing event!) for a fundraiser, silent auction, or raffle. I always donate and, oddly enough, even when someone buys it or receives it, very few winners take me up on it.
My most recent idea was to create a gift basket – or “chocolate kit” if you will - containing all the chocolates that would be needed for a tasting event. I also included a brief but detailed explanation of how I would conduct the tasting using the materials provided.
And it worked!
Culinary Tours Belgian Extra Dark Chocolate – 85% Cacao
July 27, 2019
I know. Another 85% extra dark chocolate review. You might wonder if I ever get sick of eating and reviewing 85% dark chocolates. The answer would be NO. And this won’t be the last time you see an 85% dark chocolate review from me! Hey, I like what I like and want to share it with the world. Plus, there are sooo many high percentage chocolates to choose from these days.
Larabar Coconut Truffles
July 19, 2019
I like Larabars. I especially like them on long bike rides. They taste good, and they give me lots of energy to be active and full of life. As you know, I also like chocolate (okay, LOVE chocolate) so when I gave the Larabar Truffles a try, I got very confused.
Simple Truth Organic Dark Chocolate Bars
July 1, 2019
Organic chocolate continues to improve and trend. Over the last couple years I’ve seen improvements in chocolate flavor development, unique and/or exotic flavor offerings, price (much more affordable!), availability, and brands. Simple Truth chocolate bars are part of the Kroger Co. store brand line of organic chocolate.
The two Simple Truth bars I’m sharing with you today are: Cocount Dark Chocolate and Marcona Almond Dark Chocolate
Private Selection – Cranberry, Orange, and Honey
June 21, 2019
Private Selection is a Kroger store-brand that spans across many item categories, including chocolate bars. The price point for the Private Selection chocolate is certainly appealing. I paid $1.79 for the Cranberry Orange Honey Swiss Bar.
Tabal’s Great Lakes Tart Cherry
June 14, 2019
Shop local and make a difference globally. Chocolate lovers are a caring, devoted group, and many live this pledge everyday. When you are fortunate to have a small bean-to-bar chocolate shop in your area, supporting that business is not only critical to the business, but to cacao sustainability and fair compensation for farmers in the countries of origin.
I’m lucky enough to have such a local small chocolate business near me - Tabal Chocolate.