A Little Chocolate in your Tea?

From time to time something truly new and different comes across your path and you must take the time to learn more about it.  That is exactly what happened with us and organic cacao tea from the Cacao Tea Co. 

We did our research and found that this is not something new at all  but  has very ancient South American roots tied to the Mayans and Aztecs.   This chocolate tea is not technically a tea at all and is made from minimally-processed, organic cacao husks which are simply crushed and roasted before brewing.  The health benefits are extensive and include high levels of antioxidants, energy boosting and mood enhancing properties and it is calorie free when sipped neat.  After several steeping sessions we were prepared to share our new discovery so we laid the tables for a Tea F.E.T.E. (Friday evening tea education) and quickly had a full house coming to this exciting class.  Chocolate seems to have that effect on people!

Traditionally, this beverage would not be creamed or sweetened but what fun is there in that?  We laid out a variety of creaming options and sweeteners and began our tasting session.  First we tried it perfectly plain and those dark chocolate lovers believed they had found their dream drink!  Others craved more of a milk chocolate experience and started experimenting with rich cream, condensed milks, liquid and powered sweeteners of all kinds.  The results were clear: cacao tea is delicious pure and plain but when you add sweetened condensed coconut milk or cream and coconut sugar this beverage jumps up into the delicious dessert category. For a final twist we slow steeped a pot of classical Indian chai with cacao tea all afternoon then shared it with our guests.  This was truly scrumptious and highly recommended by everyone.

So as hot chocolate season is upon us, consider this healthy, lower calorie alternative to the old childhood classic.  You'll be glad you did!  Learn more about this product at Cacao Tea Co.