There are two types of cacao powder typically – the more common is the Dutch-process which with the addition of an alkaline agent (usually baking soda) has been made more soluble. The other is a non-alkalized pure cacao powder (ours is non-alkalized). Our Cacao Powder is raw which means that it has not been exposed to temperatures higher than 116. This is important for those on a raw diet.
The cacao bean is the seed of the fruit from the cacao tree which is a small evergreen tree which reaches a height of 12 to 25 feet. The cacao tree is native to the Americas and is believed to have originated in the Orinoco basins and the foothills of the Andes in the Amazon region of South America. Once harvested, the cacao seeds are fermented, roasted, and ground to create chocolate liquor. To make cacao powder, the chocolate liquor is pressed which removes most of its fat (or cocoa butter), then ground again. The result is a fine, dusky powder.
Cacao beans are naturally sugar free and taste somewhat bitter in their raw form. Once your taste buds have experienced this heavenly treat you'll see why chocolate lovers believe it tastes better than cooked and processed chocolate.
There are many health studies that have been done on the power of chocolate and various health practitioners recommend that anyone interested in eating cacao for these potential health benefits use raw, unprocessed cacao beans, nibs and powder rather than processed chocolate.
Our Certified Organic and Certified Fair Trade Cacao Powder is from a very high quality cacao bean and is harvested in Peru. Cacao powder is used in baked goods. We also like to use it sprinkled on top of finished desserts but it also has some savory applications, too, as it is the secret ingredient in many competition chili recipes and in in modern versions of classic Mexican moles.
Some of our favorite recipes with Cacao Powder are Chocolate Chunk-Peanut Cookies, Amish Cinnamon Bread and for savory flavor in this homemade (non competition) - Chili with Beans.
We also carry a top grade Organic Cacao Nib that if you are a serious lover of chocolate are sure to enjoy.
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