“Chocolat”, the comedy released in 2000 based on the novel by Joanne Harris was crystal clear when he stated that each person has a different chocolate match. Chocolate lovers all over the world would agree to this. Adore and passion for chocolates is relative. One’s interest to get a chocolate might vary from another person’s. See love for chocolates is dependent on a person’s flavor and his taste alone!
Even though the true measure of a chocolate lover is which they would consume anything that’s chocolate, there’s more than a hundred percent chance that they have a preferred brand or kind. So, with all the chocolates in the world and nations claiming to be the best in generating them, who really requires the hat?
Wherever it Began
The background of the chocolate goes back to the times of the Aztecs when they discovered that the beads within the pods of the cocoa tree could be squashed and processed to produce a dark, bitter liquid which they mixed with spices. The resulting frothy mixture allegedly gave energy to their gods and leaders. Even then, they knew the cocoa tree to be of some substance they could use in the future. If only they could find better means to process xocolat, the word they used to call the drink.
Only the Aztec leaders had been allowed to drink and simply because the beans were revered so much, it became a currency. When the Spanish conquerors went back again to Spain, they tried to introduce the beans to the majesties. Unfortunately, they couldn’t find much use for them just however. But after some major trials and errors, they realized that when mixed with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and some sugar, the sweet result is even more tantalizing. From then on, it grew popularity and to get a although, it became Spain’s best kept secret. It took about a hundred years before the rest of Europe found about the solution and when it did, it spread like wildfire amongst the nobilities because they are the only ones who can afford the expensive beans. Soon, European nations started their own methods of enhancing chocolate production.
A Triple Treat
The battle for discovering the perfect chocolate formula has seeped into the European countries. Spain, surprisingly, took a step back and watched although France, Belgium and Switzerland took turns in making chocolate background. Even the Americas joined the clamor after the industrial revolution and the consecutive wars. However, the fact remains that chocolate lovers know France, Belgium and Switzerland to become creators of the finest chocolates in the world!
The French are known for their liberal yet art-loving lives, their sense of fashion, culinary prowess along with a distinct way of life. French chocolates however, are surprisingly not usually known to become one of their expertise. French morsels are frequently embellished with edible ornaments, hand-painted and carved painstakingly, almost like a work of fine art and what’s nice is it is as delicious since it looks! The dark chocolates are subtle in flavor and it’s neither as sweet nor bitter as any other kind. The flavor merely lingers in the mouth.
With regards to building what we now know as mass created chocolates, the Swiss requires the front row seats. Chocolate was released to Switzerland when Zurich mayor, Heinrich Escher, imported cocoa beans and consumed it in banquets. It was banned thereafter due to its alleged aphrodisiac benefits. But no one can stop the Swiss from getting the makers of chocolate as we recognize them these days. So, what’s your vote?
Lastly, you got to check out the site for True Chocoholic that will show you how to appreciate and understand about chocolate. Finally, I got a chance to learn more and taste more, to understand why chocolate is such a wonderful experience.
