Cacao Nibs Chocolate Covered: How Cacao Should Be
Posted in Cacao, Chocolate Products on December 20th, 2009 by sarita – Comments Off
We’ll eat pretty much anything covered in chocolate. But why do chocolate-covered cacao nibs make a particularly great snack? Fresh cacao nibs can be compared to an unsweetened chocolate chip, as they’re made from crushed cocoa beans. On their own, they’re crunchy, rich and nutritious, not to mention their mood-elevating properties. Cacao nibs can be blended into smoothies, used in baking or added to granola for a low-calorie, vegan boost.
Cover cacao nibs in dark chocolate and you have a sweet, giftworthy treat that’s also a portable snack. The taste of chocolate-covered cacao nibs depends on the type of chocolate used. Chocolate containing a higher level of cacao means a chocolate-covered cacao nib that’s more intense and less sweet than those with a lower percentage. They will have a smooth, shiny look and taste, with the chocolate balancing some of the mild bitterness of the cacao nib. Look for nuances of fruit, nuts, vanilla, or smokiness, depending on the chocolate used.
You can also combine chocolate-covered cacao nibs in a bowl with pistachios, almonds or dried fruit for a satisfying dessert. Or make your own trail mix incorporating chocolate covered cocoa nibs. (Note: the chocolate covered cacao nibs contain more caffeine and sugar than the plain nibs themselves, so be mindful of quantities).
For a deliciously refined example of what chocolate covered cacao nibs should taste like, check out Sweetriot Cacao Nibs – Dark Chocolate 65, 12 Units / 1 oz.
