Cacao from Rio Caribe in Venezuela is one of the highest-priced cacao in the world. This region is famous for producing cacao with a unique flavour, aroma and texture, prized by prominent chocolatiers all around the world. Cacao from Rio Caribe is of the “Criollo” species and is considered one of the finest in the world.

The “Criollo” variety is characterized by a mild flavour and low acidity, making it ideal for making chocolate with a mild taste and velvety texture. Rio Caribe cacao is also known for its intense aroma, which features a richness of floral and fruity notes.

Rio Caribe cacao producers take care of the quality of their product by using natural methods of growing and harvesting the cacao fruit. Rio Caribe cacao is often produced on small farms, which allows for quality control and a unique flavour.

Rio Caribe cacao is also prized for its health properties. It contains a large amount of antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals and have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Rio Caribe cacao can also help regulate blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure.

What is cacao paste?

It is the dried, shelled, and then ground cacao beans, which take the form of a hard but brittle block or lumps.

Properties of cacao

Ceremonial cacao is a special form of cacao used in ceremonies by the indigenous cultures of Mexico, and Central and South America. It contains theobromine, caffeine, anandamide, phenylethylamine, and flavonoids that affect the body and mind. Consuming ceremonial cacao helps regulate mood, relieve symptoms of depression and stress, reduce pain and inflammation, and strengthen the immune and cardiovascular systems.

You can read more about the properties of cacao here.

How to prepare cacao?

Mix between 10-20 grams of crushed cocoa with water, vegetable or animal milk (200 ml) and spices such as chilli, vanilla, cinnamon or cardamom. If desired, sweeten with honey or other healthy sugar. it is worth adding spices and honey at the end of the process.

You can find all the recipes for ceremonial cacao here.

What can be made from cacao paste?

Cacao paste is a very versatile culinary ingredient that can be used to prepare many different dishes and desserts at home. Here are some ideas of what can be made from cacao paste:

• Hot chocolate: Cacao paste is the ideal ingredient for making hot chocolate. Just dissolve the paste in milk or water, add sugar and season with your favourite spices, such as cinnamon or vanilla.
• Desserts: cacao paste is an ideal ingredient for preparing desserts such as brownies, chocolate cakes, truffles or milk chocolate. Just add the paste to a cake or cream to add an intense cacao flavour.
• Beverages: cacao paste can also be used to prepare various beverages, such as smoothies, shakes and shakes. Just add the paste to a blender with milk, banana or other fruits and season with your favourite spices.
• Sauces: cacao paste is an ideal ingredient for making sauces for meats, vegetables or salads. Just add the paste to the sauce and mix it with other ingredients to add an intense cacao flavour.
• Chocolate flakes: Cacao paste can also be used to make homemade chocolate flakes. Just dissolve the paste with milk, add sugar and mix with oatmeal, then dry in the oven.

Remember that cacao paste is very intense in flavour, so it should be added in moderation to dishes.

Daily dose of cacao

About 10-20 grams. Occasionally, you can increase to 50 grams.