Cacao has a history that stretches beyond the chocolate bars we enjoy today. While chocolate is rooted in British culture, its origins tell a story of global ancient traditions.
Cacao Was First Cultivated by the Ancient Maya
This was later carried out by the Aztecs in Central America, where it was treasured as a sacred bitter drink. When Spanish explorers came across cacao in the sixteenth century, they introduced it to Europe, and it became very popular. However, only the wealthy could afford it.
By the Seventeenth Century, Chocolate Houses Began Appearing Across Europe
These establishments became fashionable meeting places for the elite, similar to coffee shops but more exclusive. Hot chocolate was still bitter and often spiced with chilli, cinnamon or vanilla. You can learn more about chocolate in Germany at the Chocolate Museum in Cologne.
People Love a Variety of Flavours in Food
People love savoury and sweet flavours because they offer a variety of tastes that feel satisfying and comforting. Natural flavourings offer so much, and you can browse the collection at https://foodieflavours.com/collections/natural-flavourings.
Cacao Was Once Believed to Have Medicinal Benefits
Early doctors prescribed it for everything from digestive issues to fatigue.
The UK Played a Role in Making Chocolate Accessible
In 1847, Fry’s of Bristol created the world’s first modern chocolate bar by mixing cacao butter, sugar and cocoa powder into a mouldable paste. Later, in 1866, Cadbury introduced improved cocoa products, and by the early 1900s British brands such as Cadbury, Rowntree’s and Fry’s were shaping the global chocolate industry.
