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Both cocoa powder and butter can be made from cocoa beans. But the cocoa beans themselves have more benefits than the powder obtained from them, so the use of these nuts in their raw form has earned great popularity among our contemporaries and has become one of the attributes of a healthy diet.

Composition and calorie content

Cocoa beans are a unique product in its composition, which is distinguished by a significant amount (about 320) various types antioxidants, among which polyphenol occupies one of the key positions. It is generally difficult to find in any other known food product.

Did you know? Cocoa came to the European part of the world in 1519 thanks to the Spaniards.

• caffeine;
• theobromine;
• theophylline;
• phenylethylamine;
• melanin.

Irreplaceable fatty acid:

• linoleic;
• stearic;
• palmitic.

100 grams of cocoa beans contain:

• copper - 2275 mg;
• potassium – 747 mg;
• phosphorus - 500 mg;
• sulfur - 83 mg;
• chlorine - 50 mg;
• magnesium - 80 mg;
• calcium - 28 mg;
• sodium - 5 mg;
• zinc - 4.5 mg;
• iron - 4.1 mg;
• manganese - 2.85 mg;
• molybdenum - 40 mcg;
• fluorine - 30 mcg;
• cobalt - 27 mcg.

• fats provide - 85%;
• proteins - 9%;
• carbohydrates - 6%.

• A, B1, B2, PP, E - in small quantities.

Did you know? Until recently, cocoa beans served as small currency among the Indian populations of central America. In addition, today the indigenous people of America are considered long-livers due to constant use in food cocoa beans and products made from them.

What are the benefits of cocoa beans?

The rare combination of a large number of useful substances in cocoa beans contributes to:

Did you know? In many parts of the world, cocoa is touted as a drink of longevity. Even Swiss doctors advise everyone after passing the forty-year age threshold to systematically use this product.

Separately about losing weight

Although cocoa is not low in calories, this drink is quite helpful if you want to lose weight, since it contains most of the vitamin and microelement components necessary for normal functioning. human body, especially when you have to be on a strict diet.
The only condition is not to add sugar to the product. To restore strength, one cup of this delicious drink per day with the possible addition of milk is enough.

Important! For men regular use cocoa especiallyhealthybecause it strengthens protective functions body from early strokes, heart attacks, prostatitis, and also makes it possible to lead a productive sex life until old age.

Possible harm

But, like any product, cocoa beans have their contraindications:

Important! Before three years old Cocoa is strictly not recommended for children. If parents take a risk and give their child this product, then it must at least be natural (dark Brown without any flavoring or flavoring impurities with chocolate aroma).

How to eat cocoa beans

With the systematic consumption of products made from cocoa beans, a person is able to feel a surge of strength every day, an improvement in physical, emotional, and intellectual capabilities. These grains can be consumed both raw and processed. Exist various options products obtained from them.

Raw

Eating raw cocoa beans is the least labor-intensive, easiest way, and today it is becoming increasingly popular.

Options delicious to eat There are plenty of these grains in their raw form, for example, to level out the bitter taste and also greater benefit They can be coated with honey and combined with nuts before enjoying.

But to fully experience the unforgettable, pristine taste of chocolate, you need to chew 1 tablespoon of the grains. To remove the skin from the grains, you need to place them in boiling water for a few minutes.

Did you know? The skin of cocoa beans is also valuable; when ground, it produces excellent scrubs for the body and even the face.

Cocoa powder drink

Since childhood, everyone has been familiar with the taste of cocoa. You can make this absolutely natural drink yourself. To do this, grind the cocoa beans in a coffee grinder to a uniform powder consistency and pour boiling water over it.
If desired, this delicacy can be flavored with milk and sugar can be added. The taste of such a product remains unforgettable.

Did you know? On average, about forty cocoa fruits or more than a thousand grains are needed to produce 1 kilogram of powder.

Cocoa beans are very useful fruits. Their use is multifaceted, because it is not only consumed as food, but also used in cosmetic or pharmaceutical areas. The main thing is if you want to improve your health with the help of this useful product- observe the measure.

How to make chocolate from cocoa beans: video

At first glance, these are ordinary nuts, there is nothing special about them. But this is only if we evaluate them from the point of view of visualization. Cocoa beans are a way to add freshness, fill the room with aroma and energize the body.

This raw material is very useful because it contains many vitamins and antioxidants. Thus, polyphenols contained in cocoa beans are powerful plant antioxidants. In addition to them, the raw material also contains minerals. The activity of these components exceeds even vitamin E, tens of times. In addition, cocoa beans are not only mega-healthy, but also mega-tasty.

And finally, it is worth noting that it is these fruits that can improve the interaction of a married couple who long time lives together. Here it should be said that we're talking about not only about sensations, but the feeling of falling in love, as well as increased libido. Raw cocoa beans help improve the condition of skin and hair, thereby affecting eroticism and better perception of each other.

Varieties of cocoa beans

Their classification is numerous. But in fact, only two of the most basic groups of cocoa beans stand out. So this is criollo and forastero. The first option includes noble and varietal types of raw materials. As a rule, this is a crop that produces a small yield. But, despite this, the quality of such cocoa beans is at a high level.

As for forastero, these are consumer or ordinary varieties. This crop is more productive. IN in this case Cocoa beans of average quality are “produced”. True, despite this, there are some exceptions. For example, varieties that were bred in Ecuador are capable of producing high quality crops.

In addition to the two main crops, there are also many hybrids. Without this cocoa beans simply could not exist. Therefore, they can still be divided into four varieties. So these are Criollo, Trinitario, Nacional and Forastero.

If you look at their origin, cocoa beans are American, African and Asian. By their name, it becomes clear where this or that raw material comes from. Dried beans also have their own classification. So, they can be bitter, sour, tart and tender. In general, there is a cocoa bean for every gourmet.

The benefits of cocoa beans

It is worth saying right away that this raw material is a real wealth. It contains great amount elements necessary for the body. One of them is epicatechin. Thanks to it, it is possible to reduce the incidence of stroke, heart attack, diabetes and even cancer.

Another important element is cocohil. It promotes skin cell growth. This way, wounds heal much faster, wrinkles are also smoothed out, and the risk of stomach ulcers is prevented. Organic cocoa in its raw raw form enriches the body with magnesium. A feeling of euphoria appears. Arginine, in turn, is one of the natural aphrodisiacs. Tryptophan powerful antidepressant. Thanks to magnesium, the heart works much better. Blood pumps more efficiently, pressure decreases, construction strong bones. Sulfur improves skin, nails and hair. In general, cocoa beans speed up and improve all processes.

In general, there is nothing wrong with drinking cocoa. A person who constantly takes it risks becoming a happy person. The thing is that the amount of antioxidants in it is several times higher than in green tea, blueberries and blackberries. So cocoa beans are very healthy.

Harm of cocoa beans

There are actually a lot of them. So, the harm may be due to the caffeine content. There is quite a bit of this component in cocoa. But despite this, if children abuse cocoa, nothing good will come of it.

The fact is that caffeine is a rather controversial product. We can talk endlessly about its harms and benefits. Thus, caffeine has a unique effect on the heart, so it is better for people suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system to refrain from consuming cocoa beans.

No matter how strange it may sound, cocoa beans can also be harmful due to sanitary conditions. So, cockroaches live in raw materials. Naturally, this is not the case in products sold in stores. But if you collect the fruits yourself, you can meet the inhabitants of cocoa face to face.

Beans are also dangerous due to their composition. Yes, they may contain chemicals. Because they are often grown using large amounts of pesticides.

And finally, a person may simply be allergic to cocoa beans. The fact is that the seeds themselves do not contain substances that can cause an allergic reaction. This phenomenon can be caused by cockroaches and other pests that previously “lived” there. Therefore, you should use cocoa beans with caution. More precisely, to say on your own, prepare various culinary delights from raw fruits.

Properties of cocoa beans

It should be noted that the raw materials are simply overflowing with useful substances and vitamins. Moreover, their content is so great that it simply amazes researchers and scientists.

So how does cocoa work? It can balance general state, and bring the person to his senses. That is, simply put, to lift your spirits and relieve the blues. In addition, blood circulation and the condition of certain areas of the brain improve. Reaction and thought processes also improve.

Cocoa beans enhance pleasure and relieve fatigue. They can relieve stress and remove depressive state. In addition, sexual sensation is enhanced. Feeling and mood improve on their own. Despite such a huge number of positive properties, cocoa beans do not cause drug addiction at all.

If you use them for 5-10 years, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing tumors. And finally, increase estrogen levels in women. In general, cocoa beans are capable

Chemical composition of cocoa beans

The main components of beans are fats, alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, organic acids and minerals.

If we take the chemical composition as a basis, then the core, cocoa shell and embryo are of value. They contain a large number of ash, fiber and other substances. The core contains cocoa butter, the total component of which is 55%. These are mainly stearic and palmetic acids.

Tannins. They are capable of giving beans a rather specific bitter taste, as well as their color. The coloring substances contained in cocoa beans are called anthocyanins.

Carbohydrates. This is starch, in an amount of 5-9%, sucrose, glucose and fructose. Cocoa beans also contain organic acids such as citric, malic, tartaric and acetic.

Minerals. These include phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. In addition, there is also ash. Its content in cocoa beans is 2-4%, in cocoa shells 6-9%.

Aromatic substances. Cocoa beans contain a sufficient amount of them. They play a huge role in creating that very specific aroma of chocolate. As previously established, the number of compounds does not exceed 300. The characteristic aroma is due to the reaction of sugar, amino acids and polyphenols.

And finally, cocoa beans also contain vitamins. Mainly useful components group B. In addition, it is biotin, nicotinic and pantothenic acid. They are found in the cocoa shell, kernel and germ of cocoa beans.

How to use cocoa beans?

In their raw form, these fruits are very beneficial for the body. They tend to restore energy and hormonal balance. In addition, they can improve vision, increase performance, have a powerful antidepressant effect, and also improve tone. All useful material, which are part of the seeds, protect the human body. As a rule, cocoa is included in the diet of those people who, for some reason, are physically weakened. In addition, when colds these fruits can have a positive effect. Peeled fruits are tender, crispy and, most importantly, have a great taste.

If you constantly consume cocoa beans, then over time they will be able to normalize menstrual cycle, eliminate apathy and even rejuvenate. Long-term use promises quality healing effect. If you have warts, papillomas and other skin problems, then cocoa beans can cope with this phenomenon. Raw fruits are reliable protection from all kinds of tumors. Due to the fact that the raw material has a complex chemical composition, this helps to excite nervous system, prevent blood clots and even improve heart function.

Antioxidants contained in cocoa beans increase the activity of radicals found in the cells of the human body. They effectively protect against infections and viruses. As for polyphenols, they are able to break down fats and thereby prevent the development of atherosclerosis and other diseases associated with cardiovascular system. Cocoa beans are very healthy in every sense.

How to eat cocoa beans?

So, crushed beans can be used different ways. So, the first thing you can do with raw materials is to eat a couple of pieces raw. The second option is to consume cocoa along with honey. You just need to dip the fruits in the sweetness. It is worth noting that for a person who tries such a delicacy for the first time, a whole dedication is carried out. Beans are very encouraging. Therefore, it is worth eating just a couple of grains, and a boost of energy is provided for a while.

There is another option for using beans. To do this, you need to peel them and mix them with crushed nuts and honey. The taste in this case is delicate. In addition, nuts also have active action. In order to properly peel the nuts, you need to fill them with water for a couple of minutes, then remove the peel with a knife. But don't rush to throw it away. Because the ground peel is good scrub for face.

And finally, cocoa can be used to make a delicious drink. All you have to do is grind the cocoa into powder and pour boiling water over it. You can add milk to taste. Get a delicious drink. In general, cocoa beans are used in different ways.

How to make cocoa from cocoa beans?

To prepare delicious and healthy drink You'll have to get some ingredients. So, to prepare four servings you need to take 200-300 grams of beans. A couple of them can be freely eaten during the cooking process. You will also need 200-300 grams of honey, 20-30 grams of cinnamon and a vanilla pod.

In addition, you will need to get a frying pan, a masher and a couple of plates. The first step is to prepare the cocoa beans. They are washed thoroughly, then thoroughly ground into containers and filled with water. This action will allow you to quickly get rid of the peel. Now the beans are cleaned and various spices are prepared. So, honey and vanilla are suitable as “lotions”. All this is thoroughly mixed with the beans. Now the resulting components are crushed to a chocolate mass. A coffee grinder is suitable for this task. After all this, the resulting mass is poured with boiling water. You can add a little milk. This is how delicious cocoa is prepared.

Recipes from cocoa beans

There are a variety of recipes made from cocoa beans, many of which are true works of art. Most people love delicious candies. So, that’s why it’s worth considering one simple recipe.

To prepare, you need to take 500 grams of cocoa beans, about 150 grams of cocoa butter, the same amount of honey, a couple of vanilla pods and a little cinnamon. Poppy seeds, sesame seeds and orange zest are suitable for the filling. Now you can start cooking. The first step is to wash the cocoa beans and peel them. Then put a piece of butter in a frying pan and melt it. It is important that its temperature does not exceed 50 degrees. Then all this is intensively mixed, vanilla and cinnamon are added. Mix everything thoroughly and add honey to taste. This is how you get delicious candies. You can try them immediately. If you want the candies to be hard, you should put them in the refrigerator for a while.

In principle, this entire mass can be poured with boiling water and you will get a delicious drink. In fact, there are a lot of recipes with cocoa beans. It is important to remember to eat a couple of raw grains daily. Then cocoa beans will have a positive effect on the body as a whole.

Chocolate made from cocoa beans

It is very easy to make the most delicious chocolate from cocoa beans. The main components of this product are raw materials and cocoa butter. The point is that you can buy these ingredients in a regular supermarket. Pleasure is not cheap.

After the ingredients have been purchased, you need to proceed to the cooking process. So, first of all, the beans need to be peeled. Then grind everything in a coffee grinder and fry in a frying pan. In this way, the cocoa beans will be able to reveal their unique aroma. Next they are mixed with cocoa butter. The most optimal proportion is 50 to 50. This will soften the taste, because cocoa beans themselves are bitter. To complete the job, you will have to cook all the above ingredients in a water bath. An ordinary Turk is perfect for this. During the cooking process, you can add a little powdered sugar to create caramel.

If you want to make milk chocolate, this is perfect. powdered milk. But in this case it is necessary to maintain a certain proportion, namely 40 to 60. It should be noted that milk can evaporate beneficial features chocolate. The resulting raw materials are bottled silicone molds. Then you need to leave it alone for a while so that the chocolate hardens. After a while, the treat can be consumed. This is how delicious cocoa beans can be.

Cocoa butter

Cocoa bean butter has many beneficial properties. To obtain this raw material, cocoa beans must be pressed. During this process, a squeezed liquid is obtained yellowish color. At the same time she has Strong smell, and even taste. Therefore, they will need to be softened. For this purpose, steam treatment under vacuum is used.

During cooling, cocoa butter takes on a crystalline form and becomes hard and cold. The action of this component in its raw form is superior to any known cosmetical tools. At the same time, the skin is nourished with fatty acids and flavanols. Cocoa butter itself improves cell functioning upper layers skin. Thus, wrinkles are removed.

When consuming cocoa butter in food, the condition of blood vessels improves. In addition, their elasticity increases. It has a beneficial effect on the inner layers of the skin, as well as subcutaneous tissue. You can use this ingredient to prepare delicacies. Cocoa butter is stored at temperatures from 0 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Cocoa butter is a complete complex of vitamins, proteins, and microelements. All of them together are sources good health. They can increase vitality body. In general, cocoa beans are a very high-quality and healthy product.

Cocoa beans for weight loss

Are cocoa beans effective for weight loss and are they even used in this “industry”? In their raw form, the fruits have a very interesting properties. Besides, they are useful.

Thus, cocoa beans contain many vitamins, microelements and other components. Thanks to which not only all body functions improve, but also metabolism improves. What does this mean? The fact is that you can lose weight with cocoa.

There is a special variety of cocoa called “live”. It promotes rapid fat burning. But take it in large quantities it is forbidden. And in general, it is better to consult a doctor.

As for ordinary cocoa, it does not have magical properties that help you lose weight. But there is one plus in this case. Cocoa has virtually no calories, which allows it to be consumed in different quantities. But it’s clearly not worth abusing this.

In general, cocoa beans are ways to speed up metabolism. Therefore, they can still help with weight loss.

Drink made from cocoa beans

It is very easy to prepare a tasty and effective drink from cocoa beans. To prepare, you need to take approximately 200 grams of the main ingredient. In addition, approximately 30 grams of cocoa butter. You also need cane sugar, cinnamon and vanilla to taste.

The cooking method is as follows. Cocoa beans are washed and peeled. Then they need to be crushed. Next, the resulting raw materials are placed on a heated frying pan. Add butter, sugar and vanilla to taste. Don't forget about cocoa butter. The resulting mass is thoroughly whipped with a whisk or mixer. Then about 200 grams of water is added. The resulting raw material should be left alone so that it all cools down to 30-40 degrees. After which the drink can be poured into cups and enjoy the unique taste.

For improvement taste qualities, you can add a little ginger or a couple of cinnamon sticks. In this case, everything is purely individual. Cocoa beans allow you to prepare a wonderful drink that will warm your soul and body.

Cost of cocoa beans

What is the optimal cost of cocoa beans? It is difficult to answer this question unequivocally. It all depends on the type of cocoa beans. So, the cost can vary from 100 rubles to 100 dollars per kilogram.

Much depends on both the variety and useful qualities the product itself. There are special cocoa beans that stimulate metabolism. So, they are aimed at accelerating the weight loss process. Called green or live beans. You cannot eat them every day. Although they are useful, they cannot be used constantly.

In general, it is quite possible to find cheaper options. If you really can’t find a certain amount to buy, then ordinary cocoa powder will help. Thanks to it you can also prepare chocolate, drinks and other gourmet dishes. It is important to simply understand how to handle it.

You don’t have to chase exquisite varieties. The main thing is to be able to cook and create masterpieces. Cocoa beans are a universal product; they are suitable both for promoting health and for improving body tone.

The chocolate tree, or cocoa as it is often called, belongs to the genus Theobroma, in the Malvaceae family. Special value it represents thanks to its fruits - cocoa beans. Huge evergreen plantations are spread across tropical forests, most of which are located in Africa. Cocoa beans can be used both raw and processed (for example, cocoa powder, cocoa butter, which are used not only in cooking, but also in perfumery and the pharmaceutical industry).

Description of the chocolate tree

The chocolate tree is an evergreen plant reaching a height of 12-15 meters. It is straight-trunked and not very wide in diameter (about 30 centimeters). The color of the bark is brown, the wood is yellow. Cocoa has many branches and leaves. The leaves have a rounded-oblong shape, large sizes(up to 30 cm long) and fine structure, they combine two shades of green: dark green and light green. The tree also blooms with small flowers of pinkish-white and pinkish-red iridescence. The flowers themselves are quite attractive, but they give off a foul aroma that is so attractive to dung flies and butterflies; these insects are the main pollinators of cocoa.

What do the fruits look like?

The tree bears fruit with large fruits, reminiscent of the citrus genus, however, with deep grooves. The outside of the cocoa beans is dense and wrinkled. Inherent colors are red, orange, yellow. The chocolate bean inside contains pulp, divided into five compartments, each with seeds (up to 12 pieces in a separate column). Cocoa beans are always fermented first to improve the taste and aroma.

Where do cocoa trees grow?

How do cocoa beans grow? The homeland of cocoa is tropical forests (South and Central America, Mexico). In countries where the chocolate tree grows, the climate is necessarily humid and hot. Cocoa is a rather fastidious plant, since a temperature drop below 20 degrees or, conversely, an increase above 30 degrees immediately affects the tree. Also, this culture does not like direct sunlight, so it is not found at higher elevations, but only in lowlands. Last year's foliage, loose and fertile bud - best friends tree. On plantations, this plant is watered abundantly every day.

How to grow cocoa

How are cocoa beans grown? What conditions are required? The plant propagates using seeds or cuttings. Complexity seed growing is that you can plant them only within 10 days after ripening, then they simply will not sprout. For planting, make soil that includes turf, withered leaves and sand. The beans are first planted in small containers to a depth of 2 cm. The seedlings are kept at a temperature of 23-25 ​​degrees. The main conditions for successful germination are abundant watering and regular irrigation of the sprouts.

The evergreen plant is also grown at home. There is nothing complicated about it. You will need a deep pot and loose soil with fertilizers. Place the chocolate tree beans in a warm water so that slight fermentation and swelling occurs. Make holes in the prepared soil 2-3 centimeters deep. Place one swollen grain in each cavity. Place the pot in a warm, bright place. Water regularly. As soon as the shoots appear, protect them from direct sun rays. Expect sprouts to appear in about 15-20 days. If you overwater the plant, mold will appear on the leaves. Don't forget to feed organic fertilizers. You can get a good harvest from trees grown at home.

Composition of cocoa beans

The vitamin, microelement and macroelement composition of the fruits of the evergreen plant is huge and almost reaches 300 components. The calories in the raw materials are also noticeable - 530 kcal per 100 grams of product. It contains the most fat - 53.2 g, in second place are proteins - 12.9 g, slightly less carbohydrates - 9.4 g, there is also water - 6.5 g, a little ash - 2.7 g. , a little organic acids – 2.2 g.

The calorie content of cocoa beans is quite high, however, firstly, the grains improve the digestion process, and secondly, they bring quick satiety, so the seeds of this fruit are often used in various diets.

Macronutrient composition of cocoa beans

In cocoa beans per 100 grams, potassium (750 mg) and phosphorus (500 mg) take the lead in macronutrients, followed by magnesium (80 mg) and sulfur (83 mg), and chlorine (50 mg) in third place. ), in honorable fourth place is calcium (25 mg), and let’s not forget about sodium (5 mg).

Microelement composition

The amount of copper in chocolate tree beans is amazing - 2270 mcg! They contain a lot of molybdenum - 40 mcg, cobalt - 27 mcg, zinc - 4.5 mcg and iron - 4 mcg.

Health benefits and harms

At the beginning of the 21st century, a scientist from Harvard University, Norman Gollenberg, was actively involved in research on cocoa beans and identified the substance epicatechin in their composition, which prevents heart attacks, strokes, cancerous tumors and others. Large-scale studies were carried out by the University of Münster, during which it was proven that raw cocoa contains a substance called cocohil, which improves the growth and restoration of skin cells. The latest discovery made a breakthrough in medicine, as new medicines, quickly healing wounds and rejuvenating the skin. Melanin, which is present in beans, is also important; it performs the function of protecting against ultraviolet rays. But there are substances in chocolate beans, for example, purine, which causes salt deposits in the bone tissue and accumulating uric acid. We will tell you in more detail below about all the beneficial and harmful properties of miracle beans.

Useful properties of cocoa beans

The vitamins, antioxidants and minerals contained in cocoa beans are amazing in quantity and quality. This composition affects their positive properties, which are that cocoa beans:

• Improves mood, calms the nervous system;
• Affect blood circulation and brain function, hence fast reaction for what is happening and excellent memory;
• Lead to strengthening of the cardiovascular system, balancing blood pressure;
• Relieves fatigue;
• Strengthen motor activity;
• Provide restful sleep;
• Increases sexual desire, positively affecting intimacy partners;
• Actively cope with stress and depression;
• Reduce the risk of cancer;
• Increase the quantity female hormone estrogen;
• Reduce the risk of osteoporosis;
• Helps burn extra calories;
• Extend life.

Cocoa beans and weight loss

What are the benefits of cocoa beans for those who want to lose unnecessary pounds? Raw nuts accelerate metabolic processes between body cells, strengthen endocrine system, balance the composition of fat. And their best visible effect– appetite suppression and quick satiety. Raw cocoa is an excellent option for a quick and easy snack that will give you a lot of energy for new things. In a month of eating these beans you can lose up to 3-4 kilograms!

Not very useful properties

The small amount of caffeine contained in raw cocoa limits the consumption of nuts for pregnant women, lactating women, and small children. Besides this product inhibits the absorption of calcium, which is so necessary for proper development fetus in the womb, so women in interesting position you should completely stop consuming it. The harm also lies in the fact that cocoa may cause allergic reaction both for the unborn child and for the mother.

The chocolate tree is grown on a large scale on huge plantations and is constantly treated with fertilizers and pesticides. The fruits contain very unpleasant and disgusting creatures - cockroaches, so after harvesting, additional treatment with chemicals is also carried out. Fermentation of cocoa beans is a mandatory process that significantly improves the characteristics of the raw material.

Recipes with cocoa beans

How to eat cocoa beans? Chocolate is made from the fruits of the cocoa tree and cocoa powder is made. This is not a complete list; grains can be used to make excellent dishes. Best Recipes Here.

Seasoning

Roast the raw cocoa beans in the oven at 180 degrees (15 minutes). Cool and dry thoroughly. Grind them in a coffee grinder or using a meat grinder. This seasoning is perfect for pastry cream, mousse, and jelly. It has a bitterish spicy taste.

Cream sauce

Fry 2 tbsp. flour in a frying pan. As soon as it turns yellow, pour in a glass of heavy cream and bring to a boil. Grind some grains, we only need 1 tbsp. ground grain. After the cream boils, add crushed raw materials, a pinch of salt and pepper.

Homemade chocolate

Grind the cocoa beans and fry in a frying pan for 15 minutes. Combine roasting and cocoa butter, add dry milk, put on fire using the “water bath” method. Cook until the whole mass is homogeneous, remembering to stir. If you take 0.5 kg. seeds, then the amount of cocoa butter will be the same, that is, 0.5 kg, the amount of milk powder is 2 times less - 0.25 kg. Calculate your own kilograms and grams of ingredients, always observing the proportion 2/2/1. Pour hot chocolate into molds, leave on the table for an hour, then put in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.

Chocolate cookies

You will prepare the cookies very quickly, but you will have to wait half a day before they dry. If you are willing to be patient, write down the recipe. When you eat, feel a slight crunch.

You will need:

• 8 tbsp. crushed cocoa seeds;
• 4 bananas;
• 2 tbsp. crushed flax;
• 2 tbsp. coconut flakes.

Step by step recipe:

1. Process the bananas in a blender to a viscous puree.
2. Add crushed seeds to the bananas and knead the mixture.
3. Form small cakes using a spoon and sprinkle coconut flakes on top. Leave to dry.
4. Turn the cookies every hour.

Cocoa bean butter

Fat, called oil, is obtained from the seeds of the cocoa tree. It has a pleasant cocoa aroma and whitish yellow color. Interestingly, at a temperature of 15-17 degrees, the oil has a solid structure, and an increase in temperature leads to liquefaction and acquisition transparent color. This oil contains many acids, among which are: oleic, lauric, arachidic, etc. Many recipes include this oil.

How to make cocoa from cocoa beans?

What is cocoa? The drink, known throughout the world, was discovered at the beginning of the 19th century by the Dutch chemist Johann Houten, who squeezed the oil from the beans to create cocoa powder, so loved by children and adults.

Types of cocoa beans

There are three varieties of chocolate tree: Trinitario, Criolo and Forastero. For example, Forastero has dark brown grains that have a bitter taste, high content fat, strong odor. In addition, this species is not picky about its conditions and can withstand temperature changes and drought. In Criolo seeds pleasant aroma and slight coloration. Each type of cocoa tree is unique in its chemical composition. Varieties of cocoa beans are named after the countries in which they are grown.

IN Big world cocoa beans arrived thanks to the Spaniards, who noticed the special respectful attitude of the local population towards the chocolate tree and its fruits. Interestingly, there used to be even an exchange of seeds for slaves. They first learned to make hot chocolate from the fruits, and only then cocoa and other secondary products. The first chocolate appeared recently - at the beginning of the 19th century. Cocoa beans have such beneficial properties as improving mood, strengthening heart vessels, balancing blood pressure, relieving fatigue, burning calories, prolonging life, etc. Many culinary recipes worldwide include processed chocolate tree raw materials.

In contact with

Cocoa beans have long been called the food of the gods. Modern consumers may be perplexed by such an enthusiastic epithet. After all, they are used mainly for the production of chocolate and other sweets with an equally high degree of processing. Unfortunately, such products do not even contain some of the properties of natural raw cocoa beans.

Research shows that people who consume even ready-made chocolate live an average of a year longer. Therefore, you can imagine the benefits of consuming real cocoa in its original form.

By origin, cocoa beans are the fruits of small trees growing in the tropical forests of Central and South America. Nowadays, they can be found in other parts of the world, for example in Africa. Cocoa is an evergreen tree and bears fruit. all year round, he doesn’t have an off-season.

The plant began to be cultivated around 1500 BC. e., the Mayans and Aztecs valued beans more than gold and used them as money. Christopher Columbus brought cocoa to Europe. The product quickly gained popularity at the Spanish royal court, and then throughout Europe. Residents of the Old World appreciated its taste and health benefits.

Today, the benefits of cocoa are confirmed by numerous scientific studies.

Cocoa renders positive influence on cardiovascular system thanks to the flavonoid epicatechin. But since this compound is characterized by a bitter taste, it is removed from cocoa products. Milk and sugar further neutralize its beneficial power.

If you don’t want or have the opportunity to eat raw cocoa beans, you can eat dark chocolate: it retains some of the flavonoids.

According to scientific research, the benefits of epicatechins are as follows:

• improve short-term memory,
• stimulate blood supply to the brain and blood circulation in general,
• effectively reduce blood pressure.

A team of Dutch scientists has proven that those who consume cocoa beans and cocoa-based products regularly have a reduced risk of dying from heart disease.

Treasury of useful elements

The product is a generous source of many nutrients.

Present in high concentration antioxidants that “protect” our body from free radicals. The harm of these molecules is reduced to a destructive effect on DNA, which causes various diseases and is the cause of early aging.

Another component that cocoa beans are a rich source of is magnesium, an effective weapon against stress. It also protects the heart: improves blood flow, ensures oxygenation (supply of oxygen) to cells, increases productivity, relaxes muscles, develops flexibility and helps in strengthening bones.

16-42% of the world's population has a magnesium deficiency, so it's definitely worth paying attention to.

Cocoa contains enough iron to cover daily requirement in this element. Iron is part of hemoglobin and is essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. It is also an effective weapon against anemia.

Cocoa beans contain sufficient levels of chromium to compensate for its deficiency in the body. This important mineral Helps maintain normal blood sugar levels.

There are other microelements:

• manganese – together with iron, participates in the formation of hemoglobin;
• zinc - is part of many enzymes in the body, has a positive effect on the immune system;
• copper – necessary for the construction of red blood cells.

Raw cocoa contains omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin C and phenylethylamine (PEA). It is produced in our body during falling in love, and also helps improve concentration and the speed of the nervous system's response to external stimuli.

Cocoa is a strong stimulant

Contrary to popular belief, cocoa beans do not contain excess caffeine, the dangers of which we have heard a lot about. It is known that the product contains theobromine, a substance related to caffeine. Theobromine does not stimulate the nervous system so much, but it supports the heart and blood vessels.

Scientific studies have shown that cocoa does not increase blood sugar concentrations like other caffeinated products do. When consuming raw cocoa, the level rises by only 6-10%. For comparison, foods containing various stimulants can increase sugar levels by more than 30%.

But these wonderful beans increase the level of serotonin, the so-called “happiness hormone,” in the brain. It is one of the main neurotransmitters synthesized by the human body. It helps in the fight against stress and depression.

The benefit of cocoa also lies in the fact that it is the only vegetable source anandamide - a mood-boosting endorphin that naturally produced in our body after sports training.

Possible harm

For most people, cocoa products are safe to consume in reasonable quantities, but they contain caffeine-related compounds. chemical substances causes a number of harmful properties, especially when consumed uncontrolled.

1. Anxiety. Doctors have concerns that in large quantities cocoa can aggravate the condition of patients suffering from anxiety disorders.
2. The harm of cocoa for people with bleeding disorders is that it slows down clotting and increases the risk of blood loss.
3. In some cases, it can cause tachycardia in heart patients.
4. For those who suffer from diarrhea, the harm of cocoa beans comes down to aggravating the condition.
5. In patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the product prevents proper operation a valve in the food tube that is supposed to keep stomach contents from returning to the esophagus or Airways. This may make GERD symptoms worse.
6. For people with glaucoma, raw cocoa is contraindicated as it increases intraocular pressure.
7. For hypertensive patients, this undoubtedly interesting product will do more harm than good.
8. For irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as well as for diarrhea, use is contraindicated.
9. May cause migraines and headaches in particularly sensitive people.
10. Caffeine-related compounds in cocoa beans increase the excretion of calcium from the body through urine. Therefore, in most cases, the product is harmful for people with osteoporosis.
11. Stop drinking cocoa at least, 2 weeks before the planned surgery.
12. Fast, irregular heartbeat (tachyarrhythmia). Products containing theobromine can aggravate the condition of patients. This is another one harmful property cocoa beans and their derivatives.

Cocoa contains oxalic acid. Although its content is small compared to, for example, spinach and some other greens. It should also be remembered that the harm oxalic acid fully manifests itself only after heat treatment when it combines with calcium and settles in the kidneys. Here's another argument in favor of raw cocoa.

Try to find natural beans or unprocessed bean powder in stores - this is real “live” food.