National Bittersweet Chocolate Day is celebrated on January 10 each year. In ancient times, bittersweet chocolate was used as a medicine to treat a wide variety of diseases. Bittersweet chocolate is famous worldwide for its unique and delicious taste. It is used in all types of chocolate confections and desserts, and some think it’s even better when eaten as is!
History of National Bittersweet Chocolate Day
Bittersweet chocolate is a kind of chocolate which does not contain any milk. It is made from at least 35% cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, and a minimal amount of sugar.
The balance of cacao to sugar determines whether the chocolate is bittersweet, semi-sweet, or sweetened. Bittersweet, or dark, chocolate is at least 70% cacao.
The history and origins of the National Bittersweet Chocolate Day are unclear. However, the history of chocolates is rich and ancient.
The study shows that chocolate was discovered by the Aztecs, who used ground cocoa beans for cooking a bitter beverage. They typically made it with corn and pepper and named ‘xocolatl’. This is the origin of the modern name ‘chocolate’.
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A few centuries back, when Europeans embarked on their ocean voyages, they encountered the Aztec civilization and were introduced to ‘xocolatl’. But they did not like the bitter Aztec beverage. Instead, they brought the cocoa seeds back to Europe and added sugar to the ground cocoa seeds. This process led to the creation of the chocolate we eat today.
Then after, chocolate started manufacturing in several forms, shapes, flavours, and colours. In the present time, we have hundreds of chocolate brands available to satisfy our cravings.
So, do we need to wait a special day to celebrate and indulge in chocolates, when we already enjoy it daily? Bittersweet chocolate just offers us another one more reason to treat our taste buds.
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Timeline of National Bittersweet Chocolate Day
| 1500 B.C. (Earliest Known Use of Cacao Seeds) | The Olmec Indians grow cocoa beans as a domestic crop. |
| 1502 (Cacao Beans Travel to Spain) | Christopher Columbus brings cacao seeds to Spain from his voyage to Central America. |
| 1585 (Chocolate Becomes a Much-Loved Treat) | Spain, Italy, France, and other European countries visit Central America to import cacao as the demand for chocolate grows. |
| 1847 (Birth of Chocolate Bars) | The first chocolate bars are produced by Bristol company Fry & Son. |
7 Interesting Facts About Chocolate
- Chocolate is a caffeine supplement: One ounce of bittersweet chocolate contains around 10 milligrams of caffeine while a cup of brewed coffee contains around 150 milligrams of caffeine.
- Chocolate’s Flavor Complexity: Chocolate has more than 600 different flavour compounds that make its flavour profile incredibly complex. This is much more than red wine which has more than 200 flavour compounds.
- We can store it for years: It can kept for many years in the right condition (a cool dry area in a tightly sealed container) due to the high cocoa content in bittersweet chocolate.
- No need for iron supplements: Consuming an ounce of bittersweet chocolate provides 10% of the daily recommended intake of iron. So, you might need iron supplements.
- It can make you live a long life: Bitter-sweet chocolate is rich in antioxidants. It can help you protect against cell damage and lower the risk of heart disease. This may help you to remain healthy and keep you younger for several years.
- Health Benefits: Bittersweet chocolate is also known for its several health benefits. It reduces the risk of heart disease and provides antioxidants. Due to its rich content of flavonoids, it also enhances mood and cognitive function.
- Too much of a good thing: Chocolate contains a compound named Theobromine is poisonous to dogs, and can kill a human as well — if you ingest 22 lbs of it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Bittersweet Chocolate Day is celebrated on Jan 10. The day encourages us to indulge in the delicious flavours and health benefits of dark chocolate. Chocolate was discovered by the Aztecs. Later, it was evolved by mixing some sugar. It is made from 35% cocoa liquor and minimal sugar, offering a complex taste that many adore.
This chocolate variety not only satisfies our sweet cravings but also offers several health benefits, such as antioxidants, iron, and potential heart health improvements. As we enjoy this delightful treat, let’s take a moment to appreciate its history and cherish the several ways we can savour bittersweet chocolate—whether in desserts or on its own.
Frequently Ask Question
What is National Bittersweet Chocolate Day?
National Bittersweet Chocolate Day is observed on Jan10 every year to appreciate the rich and intense flavour of bittersweet chocolate.
What distinguishes bittersweet chocolate from other types?
Bittersweet chocolate holds around 35% cocoa liquor and minimal sugar which makes it richer and less sweet compared to other chocolates.
Is bittersweet chocolate the same as dark chocolate?
Yes, bittersweet chocolate is one of a kind of dark chocolate. It typically carries 50% to 90% cocoa, butter, and sugar, with a higher cocoa content than semisweet chocolate.
What are some common uses for bittersweet chocolate?
Bittersweet chocolate can be used in baking and desserts. It provides a deep and rich flavour to various confections.
How can I celebrate National Bittersweet Chocolate Day?
You can celebrate the day by consuming and enjoying bittersweet chocolate. You can also incorporate it into snacks, or gift it to friends and family.
What health benefits does bittersweet chocolate offer?
Bittersweet chocolate has several health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants which can reduce the risk of heart disease. Similarly, it also contains iron, providing 10% of the daily recommended intake per ounce.
How should bittersweet chocolate be stored?
It should be preserved in a cool, dry area in a tightly sealed container, where it can last for years due to its high cocoa content.
What is the origin of chocolate?
Chocolate was first discovered by the Aztecs. He made a bitter beverage called ‘xocolatl’ from cocoa beans. Later, it evolved into the sweetened chocolate we know today.
Why is bittersweet chocolate less popular than milk chocolate?
While many people enjoy chocolate, milk chocolate is more widely recognized and consumed, leaving bittersweet chocolate less known despite its unique flavour profile.
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