Not only does hot cocoa have health properties, but its also been around longer than you think! Here’s your incentive to reap the benefits! From ancient civilizations to current times, the history of hot cocoa shows that it has been a favored beverage for ages. Learn about how hot cocoa has evolved over the years, including how it can benefit your health.
What’s the Difference Between Hot Chocolate and Hot Cocoa?
Mixed with hot milk or water, hot chocolate is basically melted chocolate. It’s richer in flavor. People have been know to use their leftover chocolate candy to make this thick and blended drink. It is a more involved process, since the chocolate itself (milk, dark, or white) is shaved or chopped finely. This is to ensure quicker melting time when combined with hot water or milk. Vanilla can be added, or other tempting flavors like caramel and mint is also used. Sugar is not added, as there is already sugar in the melted chocolate. The result is a nice, rich and thick beverage, almost pudding-like in consistency.
Hot cocoa, on the other hand, is made from cocoa powder, sugar, and milk. The cocoa beans are dried, fermented, produced into a powder, and then sweeteners and spices are added. The drink tends to be sweeter and lighter, with flavors like cinnamon and vanilla added. It isn’t as heavy and rich like hot chocolate. Those packets we grew up with are hot cocoa, ready to mix in a mug, and sweeter in taste.
What is Hot Cocoa’s History?
It is believed that the Mayan ancient civilizations (about 500 B.C.) were responsible for creating the beloved drink we cherish during those cold, winter days. “Xocolātl,” which meant “bitter water,” was made from roasted cacao beans, chili peppers, and other spices. It was bitter, frothy and generally served cold.
The Aztecs, later on in the 15th Century, adopted this beverage. They added their own twists to it, such as honey to sweeten it, for example. The Aztec ruler, Montezuma, was known to drink large quantities of the drink. He believed it be an aphrodisiac and to have a source of strength. Aztec warriors were given this drink as part of their regular military rations, as it was used to power them up before battle. It was because it is high in calories, antioxidants, and it delivered a spark of caffeine.
Next, the early 1500s brought Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés, who presented cocoa beans to King Charles V. Eventually, it was loved by royalty and then sugar replaced chili powder. Eventually, the cold chocolate was served hot. This revolutionary drink soon took off in Europe, and chocolate houses were born, serving this delectable drink in fancy gold, silver, or porcelain. These elite-filled places housed nobles and aristocrats in search of ways to cure their hangovers, and this hot drink was the answer! This was also readily available to soldiers in the Revolutionary War, served by medics often. Even Thomas Jefferson was an immediate fan once he tried his first batch back in 1775, stating to John Adams that it may take the place of coffee and tea in America.
Does Cocoa Have Health Benefits?
I’m always on the lookout for health benefits in what I eat and chocolate is no different! Who wouldn’t want an excuse to consume more chocolate for health purposes? However, it should be mentioned that the processed chocolate and the filler ingredients we have in the typical hot cocoa packets do not offer health benefits. While extremely delicious, cocoa powder is processed at a higher temperature and is often packaged with added sugar and dairy.
Cacao powder, on the other hand, comes from raw cacao beans, is fermented, roasted, and is ground into a powder. It is more nutritious because it is less processed. When eaten in moderation, it could help improve your brain function, lower your cholesterol, and reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer. Studies have also shown that pure chocolate contains health benefits that add a mood elevator and antioxidants. Include these amazing products for added health while sipping hot cocoa, and you will receive an extra health benefit while sipping your favorite drink. Adding milk to your cocoa will also boost the health benefits, including calcium and other vitamins. I love to add a scoop of powder to my coffee as an added boost of health and a richer flavor.
Here is a Great Way to Enjoy This Festive Drink
During the cold times of the year, you’ll often find folks with their hands surrounding a hot mug of this warming drink. While this popular beverage has evolved, there are many ways to enjoy it, depending on what sweeteners or spices to add. Here is an example of a fun and delicious way to consume hot cocoa. Not only are they so pretty to look at, but they are also fun to serve up. These hot cocoa bombs make excellent gifts for the holidays or any other time of the year. Check out these additional gifts as you check people off of your list.
What Does Hot Cocoa Go With?
While hot cocoa has evolved into many different variations, it is also known to spark an adult version of this nostalgic beverage. I’ve heard of adding some wine to hot cocoa, but you can also add brandy or tequila for a grown-up twist. There are many possibilities, but I adore tasting great fine wine with many different kinds of foods. I absolutely love to pair wine with chocolate. You have to try it yourself. Tastings have become a big thing in my house, waking up the palates to various tastes that pop with a sip of wine. Pairing it with chocolate is no different, so experiment with different recipes for inspiration!
While the history of hot cocoa shows us how popular this drink is, it also has added health benefits. It is also fun to try the different ways to consume it. Not only is it a great way to warm yourself from the inside out, but you can personalize it with your own unique tastes. It also makes an excellent gift to give around the holidays. So sit back and enjoy a piping mug of hot cocoa, while feeling good about knowing its history and health benefits.
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