For centuries, cocoa has been cherished for its rich flavour and revered for its numerous health-enhancing properties. When paired with tea, these two ingredients create a harmonious blend that not only delights the senses but also nourishes the body and mind. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of cocoa, its fascinating history, and the incredible advantages it brings when infused into a warm cup of tea. From antioxidants to improved heart health, get ready to discover the enticing benefits of cocoa in tea and learn how this delightful combination can elevate your daily tea-drinking experience. So, grab a cosy spot, prepare your favourite tea mug, and join us on this flavourful journey of cocoa and tea.
The origins of cocoa
The origins of cocoa can be traced back thousands of years to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica. The cacao tree (Theobroma cacao) is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It is believed that the Olmec civilization, which thrived around 1500 BCE, was the first to cultivate cocoa. The Maya civilization, which followed, further developed the cultivation and processing techniques, using cocoa beans to create a bitter and frothy beverage that played a significant role in their culture and rituals. The Aztecs, who rose to power in the 14th century, adopted cocoa from the Maya and considered it a sacred and valuable commodity. They used cocoa beans as currency and consumed the beverage for its energising and invigorating properties. With the arrival of European explorers in the 16th century, cocoa was introduced to the rest of the world, and its popularity grew. Today, cocoa is cultivated in various regions around the globe.
Benefits of cocoa in tea
Cocoa, when combined with tea, offers a delightful blend that not only tantalises the taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. Adding cocoa to tea enhances its flavour, lending a rich and indulgent taste. Furthermore, cocoa is packed with powerful antioxidants that help combat free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall well-being. Additionally, cocoa contains flavonoids, which have been linked to improved heart health, lower blood pressure, and reduced inflammation. By incorporating cocoa into tea, one can enjoy a comforting beverage that not only uplifts the spirit but also nourishes the body, making it a perfect choice for those seeking both pleasure and wellness in their daily routine.
English Tea Shop: Our cocoa blend upgrade
Our Chocolate Rooibos & Vanilla has been upgraded and renamed to “Rooibos, Cocoa & Vanilla”. As part of our continuous efforts in further revolutionising our blends and products, we have replaced the chocolate flavouring with the increased presence of luxurious organic cocoa in our blend. Now with 100% plant-based and agricultural organic ingredient Cocoa, for a more authentic flavour profile of rich chocolate.
This upgraded blend not only guarantees standards but also showcases remarkable advancements. By elevating the cocoa composition to 26%, we present a more distinct cocoa flavour and heightened health advantages. Moreover, the refined blend offers a luxurious and intricate taste profile, delivering an unmatched sensory journey. The Rooibos, Cocoa & Vanilla blend now has a rich, complex flavour profile with hints of bitterness complementing the sweetness of Vanilla & Rooibos. The chocolate note derives from the rich cocoa, with a resemblance to exquisite dark chocolate.
In our quest to deliver an exquisite experience, we now source our cocoa from Sri Lanka and Peru. This carefully selected cocoa guarantees a premium quality taste that elevates our blend. However, this sourcing change has presented us with challenges, resulting in a slightly higher cost for this exceptional blend. We are actively exploring alternative methods to minimise costs without compromising on quality.
This blend is not only delicious and premium quality, it also has a whole host of health benefits. The caffeine in cocoa, with its increased content, provides a source of rapidly absorbed stimulated energy. Rooibos contain mind and body relaxing properties and the hint of Vanilla elevates mood reducing anxiety.
Stay tuned to the blog as we continue to celebrate more of our favourite organic ingredients that we use within our teas in the coming months.