The drink of the gods in your cup. What is ceremonial cocoa?

Surely you know the taste of cocoa – the milky and chocolatey, thick, sweet drink that is associated with carefree childhood. But have you heard of something like ceremonial cocoa? It's a unique drink that's gaining popularity in Western cultures and increasingly daring to conquer the hearts of lovers of healthy and unusual flavours. Its roots go back to the ancient traditions of the indigenous peoples of Central and South America. This is no ordinary chocolate drink we know from childhood, but a true treasure of nature!

Summary:

1. Journey to the source. Ceremonial cocoa – what is it?
2. The power of beans! Ceremonial cocoa and its properties
3. Criollo ceremonial cocoa – the noble aristocrat among cocoa varieties
4. Magic in a cup. How to drink ceremonial cocoa?
5. Try real ceremonial cocoa and discover your inner balance!

Journey to the source. Ceremonial cocoa – what is it?

Before diving into the mysteries of ceremonial cocoa, it is worth understanding how it differs from ordinary cocoa, which we know mainly from our childhood and which we can get at any grocery shop without much effort. Ceremonial cocoa is raw, minimally processed cocoa beans that retain the full spectrum of their natural properties. In short: it is cocoa of the highest quality. Ordinary, store-bought cocoa is usually a heavily processed blend of poor-quality beans, with added sugar and other flavour “enhancers”. Ceremonial cocoa, on the other hand, is the pure, unprocessed essence of the cocoa bean, without any additives. Unlike industrially processed cocoa, ceremonial one undergoes minimal processing, is not roasted at high temperatures, has a much more intense flavour and richer aroma and is not devoid of natural fat. What does ceremonial cocoa taste like? Imagine an intense, deep chocolate flavour, but devoid of sweetness. You can detect delicately earthy, floral and fruity notes, and sometimes there is a distinctive bitterness that adds character. The aroma is equally complex, with notes of chocolate, nuts and spices. It brings to mind a damp forest after a rain, mixed with notes of freshly ground cocoa beans. It's an experience that takes you straight into the heart of the jungle – where the cocoa tree comes from!

The history of ceremonial cacao is as fascinating as its taste and aroma. It goes back deep into the past, to the ancient civilisations of Mesoamerica, where cacao was considered a gift from the gods. The first traces of the use of cocoa beans go back more than 5,000 years to the Mayo-Chinchipe culture in present-day Ecuador. However, it was the Maya and Aztecs who took cacao culture to the heights, giving it the status of a sacred drink. For the Maya, cacao was a gift from the gods, specifically from the feathered serpent K’uk’ulkan. They believed that the cacao tree connected three worlds: the roots reached to the subterranean world of the dead, the trunk represented the earthly world and the branches reached to the sky – the abode of the gods. A drink made from cocoa beans was thus a bridge between these worlds. The Aztecs, on the other hand, believed that cacao was given to humans by the god Quetzalcōātl. They valued it so highly that cocoa beans were used as currency. Aztec ruler Moctezuma reportedly drank 50 cups of cacao drink a day, believing in its power as an aphrodisiac! The cacao drink prepared by the ancient peoples of the Americas was very different from what we know today. It was bitter, often flavoured with chilli, vanilla or other herbs. It was reserved mainly for the elite – priests, warriors and nobility. When Europeans arrived in the Americas, they quickly appreciated the value of cocoa, but initially did not like it in its original bitter form. It was only with the addition of sugar and milk and numerous flavour modifications that cocoa gained popularity in Europe. As cocoa became more popular and processed, its ceremonial roots were almost forgotten. In recent years, however, we have seen a return to its origins. Ceremonial cocoa is experiencing a renaissance, not only in South America, but all over the world!

The power of beans! Ceremonial cocoa and its properties

Cocoa – whether we're talking about high-quality ceremonial cocoa or the heavily processed, store-bought cocoa you'll find in any supermarket – is made from the ground seeds of the cocoa tree, a plant whose botanical name is Theobroma cacao. Cocoa tree is native to the humid rainforests of South and Central America, but nowadays its cultivation can be found in many parts of the world – the largest being in Africa. Cocoa beans are characterised by their high content of bioactive compounds, which show significant effects on the human body. Of course, it is difficult to find these in heavily processed, widely available cocoa – but they can be found in high-quality, minimally processed ceremonial cocoa. The main nutrients of (ceremonial) cocoa and their effects are:

• Polyphenols: cocoa is rich in flavanoids, particularly epicatechins and procyanidins. These compounds show strong antioxidant properties, neutralising free radicals and potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Theobromine: this alkaloid, structurally similar to caffeine, acts as a mild nervous system stimulant. Studies suggest that it may improve cognitive function and mood, while also exhibiting vasodilatory effects, which may contribute to lowering blood pressure.
• Phenethylamine: this compound, naturally occurring in the brain, can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, potentially improving mood and increasing concentration.
• Anandamide: known as the “bliss” or “happiness molecule”, this endogenous cannabinoid can modulate synaptic transmission, affecting pain perception and mood regulation.
• Minerals: cocoa is also a valuable source of minerals, including magnesium, iron, zinc and manganese, which play key roles in many metabolic processes.

What can you expect from drinking a serving of high-quality, minimally processed ceremonial cocoa? Short-term effects include a pleasant feeling of energy surge, improved mood and increased concentration. It is the ideal drink when you need an extra kick for creative work or before an important meeting. The long-term effects of drinking ceremonial cocoa are equally impressive. Regular consumption can help to strengthen the immune system, improve cognitive function and reduce stress. Some enthusiasts even claim that ceremonial cacao drinking helps them to grow spiritually and emotionally. However, it is worth noting that ceremonial cacao is not a magic pill or a miracle “cure”, but rather a natural ally on the road to better wellbeing. Its power is fully revealed when we drink it consciously, with intention and in combination with a healthy lifestyle!

Criollo ceremonial cocoa – the noble aristocrat among cocoa varieties

As we mentioned earlier, cocoa is made from the seeds of the cocoa tree – a tree that is now grown in many parts of the world. Various varieties of it are known, but most of them are artificially bred hybrids created to be more productive and produce larger and more disease-resistant beans. Unfortunately, the grains used for mass production are mostly devoid of valuable nutrients, and even if some are preserved – they are almost completely destroyed during heat treatment. Criollo is considered to be the most valuable, rare and noble variety of cacao. It accounts for only 5% of the world's cocoa production, which makes it a real treasure! Criollo beans are smaller than those of other varieties and are more delicate and less disease-resistant, making them much more difficult to grow and giving lower yields. Such rare and valuable seeds are not subjected to mass industrial processing. Each seed is carefully selected and the roasting stage is omitted from the production process so that the beans retain as many of their properties as possible. In addition, the production of high-quality ceremonial cocoa relies on honest, non-exploitative labour and respect for the surrounding nature. The result of all these efforts is a unique cocoa, characterised by a complex flavour and aroma profile. Consuming such a beverage is an experience that engages all the senses. The aroma wafting from the cup or mug transports you straight to the heart of the Amazon jungle, and each sip is like a journey through thousands of years of tradition and culture.

Magic in a cup. How to drink ceremonial cocoa?

A cacao ceremony is much more than just drinking a beverage – it is a true spiritual experience. In the cultures of indigenous peoples of Central and South America, ceremonial cacao was used in rituals to connect with nature, spirits and the self. Contemporary ceremonial cacao ceremonies often include meditation, chanting, dancing and prayers to help participants open their hearts and minds. Ceremonial cacao gently works on the mind and body, helping to relax, reduce stress and improve mood.

Ceremonial cocoa – how to prepare it?

1. Select the right cocoa. It's best to use raw, organic ceremonial cacao – for example, such as the original Criollo ceremonial cacao from Ecuador available in our shop.
2. Choose the right portion. There should be around 20-40 grams of cocoa per serving of drink – so that it is thick and intense enough. If you choose cocoa in block/bar form, grind it into smaller pieces so that it dissolves more easily in the water.
3. Heat the water. Heat the water, but do not bring it to a boil. The ideal temperature is around 70-80°C.
4. Mix the cocoa with the water. Add the powdered or shredded cocoa bar to the warm water and stir until it dissolves. You can use a blender to get a smooth consistency.
5. Enrich the drink with additives. If you wish, you can add honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, chilli, vanilla stick, a pinch of salt or other spices to enhance the taste of the drink.
6. Enjoy the moment. Sit in a quiet place, take a few deep breaths and enjoy your special drink – ceremonial cocoa.

Try real ceremonial cocoa and discover your inner balance!

Ceremonial cocoa is an extraordinary drink that has the potential to benefit not only the body, but also the soul. With its unique properties and profound effects, it can become a valuable part of a daily ritual or a unique experience during meditation. If you haven't yet had the opportunity to try this unique drink, now is the perfect time to give it a chance and discover what effects it can have in your life. Maybe try swapping your morning coffee for a serving of thick and intense ceremonial cocoa? Or organise a cocoa ceremony together with friends, instead of another evening of pizza and watching movies? Invite this ancient drink into your everyday life and see how it can change your perception of the world!

Source of information:

1. Wikipedia: Cocoa bean, Theobroma cacao.
2. C. L. McNeil, Chocolate in Mesoamerica: A Cultural History of Cacao, 2009.
3. J. Strupp Green, Feasting with Foam: Ceremonial Drinks of Cacao, Maize, and Pataxte Cacao, 2009.
4. T. L. Dillinger et al., Food of the Gods: Cure for Humanity? A Cultural History of the Medicinal and Ritual Use of Chocolate, The Journal of Nutrition, 2000.