World Chocolate Day, also called International Chocolate Day, is celebrated on July 7. Chocolates are the most popular foods that have innumerable health benefits. Chocolate Day celebrates this yummy treat and allows chocolate lovers across the world to celebrate their favourite treat and savour it without any guilt.
HISTORY OF CHOCOLATES AND WHY IS THIS DAY CELEBRATED?
Chocolates can be dated back to 450 BC.
The Aztecs opined that cacao seeds were the blessing of Quetzalcoatl, the god of wisdom. The seeds were once also used as a form of currency. They were originally served as a bitter drink, mixed with different spices. This drink was believed to have some miraculous strength building properties.
Until the 16th century, the cacao was completely unknown to Europeans. It is believed that Christopher Columbus introduced cacao beans to Europe after he intercepted a trade ship on a journey to America and brought the beans back to Spain with him in 1502.
After its arrival, Europeans added sugar to it and chocolates became popular throughout society, first among the ruling classes and then among the common people.
World Chocolate Day commemorates the introduction of chocolate to Europe in the 16th century. Before that time, Chocolate was limited to specific regions and countries. That’s the reason why Chocolate Day is celebrated.
HOW CAN WE CELEBRATE THIS WONDERFUL CHOCOLATE DAY?
The most obvious and the best way to celebrate this day is to eat this silky, delectable and soft treat. You can celebrate this marvellous day by sharing your chocolates with your family and loved ones.
Get a tour of the chocolate factory or chocolatier. Get to know the whole process of how your favourite snack is made from a small bean.
Try making your own chocolates. This seems a little difficult but it is actually easy. Read out the whole article to find how easily you can make your favourite munching snack at home.
INTERESTING FACT:
White chocolates are not really chocolates. They are not made up of cocoa but are made up of cream and dairy products.
TYPES OF CHOCOLATES:
Do you have any idea that your favourite chocolate comes in different tastes? Below are the names 13 different types of chocolates to delight your taste buds.
- White Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate
- Milk Chocolate
- Semisweet Chocolate
- Bittersweet Chocolate
- Unsweetened Chocolate
- Cocoa Powder
- Sweet German Chocolate
- Ruby Chocolate
- Couverture Chocolate
- Raw Chocolate
- Compound Chocolate
- Organic Chocolate
HOW CAN YOU MAKE CHOCOLATES AT HOME?
Want to make your chocolates at home during this pandemic? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Now you can make your favourite chocolates with only four ingredients.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- ¾ cup Cocoa Powder
- ⅓ cup Powdered Milk
- ¾ cup Coconut Oil
METHOD:
Mix all the dry ingredients properly in a bowl. Heat some water in a frying pan and place a heatproof bowl on it. Add ¾ cup of coconut oil and slowly mix all the dry ingredients with it. Churn all the ingredients slowly. Once done, pour your sweet, delicious mixture into the silicon mould. You can add some nuts, almonds etc.
Keep the mould in the refrigerator for about 2-3 hours. Your soft, yummy chocolates are ready. Now you can eat as much as your heart wants.
INTERESTING FACT:
Cacao trees, which are tropical beauties, may actually live up to 200 years.
This divine treat is not only a great source of antioxidants but also improves blood flow and reduces stress.
Chocolate is one of the few foods that taste awesome while providing significant health benefits.
But remember not to overeat, as they are loaded with calories. Eat them in the right amount and you’re good.
