Cacao Nibs
May 10, 2012
Cacao nibs have enjoyed an increased amount of attention lately. They are turning up almost everywhere nowadays, but since they are often just added to other products, many people don't really know what they are.
Nibs are actually cocoa beans with the shell removed. By the time you get them as an ingredient they have usually undergone roasting and prepping to a point that making them into bars is the only major step that remains.
The chocolate making process consists of grinding up the cocoa nibs into a very consistent and thick paste and then adding sugar. For milk chocolate, milk powder would be added. For some chocolate, extra cocoa butter might be added. But the basis of all chocolates are the ground up nibs.
All chocolate are made for cacao beans. All the antioxidant traits, minerals, neurotransmitter rejuvenating characteristics and overall health benefits can be found in the nibs.
Nibs contain magnesium, antioxidants, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, phenethylamine, tryptophan, omega-6 fatty acids and theobromine to name a few of the healthy nutrients. Much research has shown that cacao is able to contribute to the better functioning of the cardio-vascular system as well as the nervous system. This can be a part of a vibrant, healthful, and radiant lifestyle.
With invigorating flavor, coupled with a rich aroma, nibs are considered perfect to be consumed as snacks or to be included in other desserts such as smoothies and nut trail mix combinations, giving people lots of choices to experience the brilliant benefits of this superfood.
Unsweetened nibs, standing alone, are often said to be similar to the taste of roasted beans of coffee. (Of course your chocolate-focused palate will know the difference.)
Nibs are crunchy and retain the same texture when they are coated in chocolate. They are usually found in small rather than coffee bean-sized pieces. You can expect the flavor to be nutty and kind of bitter in taste just like cocoa powder or unsweetened baking chocolate.
Generally, you'll find nibs are incorporated in chocolates and chocolate products. But sometimes you can find them sold on their own. Then it's a nice treat to sprinkle them on ice cream or cereal or just eat them by themselves.
Bryn did a review of dark chocolate covered nibs about two years ago. Click the link to see what she had to say.
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