Organic Criollo cocoa beans are oval, dark brown seeds, otherwise known as chocolate nuts, that grow on the chocolate tree, or Theobroma cacao.
Cocoa beans produce cocoa solids, which consist of low-fat components and cocoa butter.
Originating in the Amazon rainforest, these beans are a key ingredient in chocolate production and find their way into a variety of delicacies, including the traditional Mexican drink tejate. But their value is not limited to gourmet pleasure. This humble bean offers many benefits and a wide range of uses, not only culinary but also medicinal and even ceremonial.
Ceremonial and cultural use – in some cultures, cocoa has been used in religious ceremonies and rituals and traditional healing practices. The cacao tree was considered a sacred plant.
Criollo cocoa beans are a rare group of cocoa. It accounts for only 1% of world production. Originating in Venezuela and Colombia, it is now also grown in Mexico, Peru, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and the Caribbean. Criollo cacao was considered by the Mayans to be the food of the gods. It is difficult to get a good yield from this variety because the trees are very susceptible to unfavourable external factors.
Cocoa beans contain antioxidants, especially flavonoids. These compounds help fight free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress and the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Flavonoids in cocoa have been shown to protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. The flavanols in cocoa can also improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure and even reduce the risk of stroke.
Cocoa contains serotonin precursors and phenylethylamine, which can have mood-lifting effects. It is often associated with feelings of love, happiness and relaxation.
Regular cocoa consumption improves cardiovascular health.
Cocoa is a good source of essential minerals such as magnesium, iron and potassium. Magnesium, in particular, plays a crucial role in muscle and nerve function, bone health and energy maintenance.
It may seem strange, but cocoa can be a useful ally in weight management. It is relatively low in sugar and can help satisfy chocolate cravings without extra calories.
Attention
Cocoa beans naturally contain caffeine, which can cause anxiety and insomnia if consumed in excess.
For some people, consuming large amounts of cocoa may cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhoea due to its high fibre content.
Rarely, however, people can be allergic to cocoa and experience symptoms such as skin rashes or itching.
Use of cocoa beans
Cocoa beans are known to be used in chocolate production. The beans are harvested, fermented, dried, roasted and ground to produce cocoa mass, cocoa butter and cocoa powder, which are the building blocks of chocolate products.
Cocoa beans are crunchy and soft at the same time, so you can just chew them. They can also be crushed or ground to make a powder that can be used in culinary preparations. Roasted cocoa beans are less bitter.
Cocoa beans can be used to make cocoa powder, which is used to make hot cocoa and various chocolate-flavoured drinks.
In addition to cocoa nibs, cocoa powder can be used in baking to give cookies or cakes a rich chocolate flavour.
Sources:
https://www.onegreenplanet.org
https://www.webmd.com
NOTE. The information contained herein should not be construed as a recommendation for treatment or other health issues. We encourage you to make personal decisions about your personal health, taking into account a wide range of sources of information.
