And how is it different to commercial Cacao?
If you are new to the world of Cacao, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed with questions. In the points below, we will touch on the many aspects of Cacao in order help you gain a clearer understanding of this delicious, nutritious (and magical) plant.
Quality and Variety of Cacao beans:
Ceremonial Cacao is made from high-quality Cacao beans of the Criollo variety. These beans are known for their unique flavour profile, milder taste, and higher concentration of beneficial components.
Commercial Cacao products generally use a mix of Cacao bean varieties which often lack the flavours and unique properties found in Criollo beans.
Intentional Preparation and Processing:
Through minimal processing using traditional methods such as hand-harvesting, fermenting and stone grinding, the natural compounds and flavours of Ceremonial Cacao are preserved. Commercial Cacao products are subjected to extensive processing, such as roasting at high temperatures, which reduces the concentration of beneficial compounds.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
Often used in spiritual and shamanic ceremonies, Ceremonial Cacao holds cultural and ritualistic importance. Regarded as a sacred and powerful plant medicine, Cacao is used to facilitate meditation, introspection, and connection. Whilst widely consumed, commercial Cacao may lack this cultural and spiritual context.
Purity and Additive-free:
Ceremonial Cacao is typically 100% pure Cacao-bean paste, with no additives or sweeteners. In the process of creating Ceremonial Cacao, nothing is lost, including one of the most amazing components - Cacao butter. The end result is the most authentic and pure Cacao experience.
Many commercial Cacao products often contain added sugars, preservatives and other ingredients that can alter the taste and impact the overall health benefits of the Cacao. Also, commercial Cacao will frequently be found in powder form, meaning the Cacao has had the Cacao butter removed. Cacao powder lacks not only the nutritional benefits of pure Cacao, but the depth of flavour, mouth feel and overall taste is also compromised in the absence of Cacao butter.
Cacao is abundant in benefits for the mind, body and soul and the perfect addition to your day. You might even like to create your own Cacao ritual or ceremony to further enhance the journey this magical, delicious plant medicine will take you on. Now you know some differences between Ceremonial and commercial Cacao, all that is left to do is try some for yourself!
