Description
Ghana Volta Ceremonial Cacao 250 g - Chocante
Ghana Volta Ceremonial Cacao from Chocante is 100% cacao paste (cocoa mass) made from Forastero variety cacao beans (Theobroma cacao) sourced from the Volta region in Ghana.
The only ingredient is ground cacao beans, with no sugar or other additives. The paste retains all of its natural cocoa butter. It works well as a base for a thick cacao drink, as well as an ingredient in desserts, smoothies, and sauces.
- Variety: Forastero
- Taste: Bitter
- Origin: Ghana, Volta region
- Packaging: Ziplock bag
What is cacao paste?
Cacao paste is made from dried, peeled, and ground cacao beans. It comes in the form of a hard, brittle block or chunks. Unlike cocoa powder, it is not defatted, which is why it contains natural cocoa butter. The term "ceremonial cacao" refers to the traditional way of preparing a cacao drink in Central and South American cultures.
Origin and variety
Ghana is one of the world's largest cocoa producers, and the Volta province is one of its main cacao-growing regions. Forastero is a variety resistant to diseases and pests, dominating West African crops. In the Volta region, beans are traditionally fermented and sun-dried, then processed into cocoa mass.
Taste and aroma
Ghana Volta cacao has a clean, aromatic flavor with distinct notes of dark chocolate and slightly roasted coffee. It is gently dry, with balanced acidity. A high tannin content gives it a slightly tart, astringent character. On the Chocante flavor scale, it is classified as a bitter cacao, making it suitable for those who do not expect sweetness and prefer to sweeten the drink themselves if desired.
Usage
Cacao paste can be used in many ways:
- cacao drink or hot chocolate – dissolved in hot water, milk, or a plant-based drink, with the addition of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, or chili,
- desserts and baked goods – brownies, chocolate cakes, truffles, creams,
- cocktails and smoothies – chopped paste blended with milk and fruit,
- sauces – as an additive providing depth of flavor, e.g., for savory sauces.
Cacao paste has a very intense flavor, so add it in moderation.
Ingredients
Cacao paste (ground cacao beans) 100%
Nutritional value per 100 g
| Energy value: | 2516 kJ / 610 kcal |
| Fat: of which saturated fatty acids: |
53 g 31.7 g |
| Carbohydrates: of which sugars: |
9.1 g 0.5 g |
| Protein: | 11.9 g |
| Salt: | 0 g |
Preparation
Crush or chop 10–20 g of cacao paste with a knife and place in a tall container. Pour over approx. 250 ml of water or a plant-based drink at a temperature of 70–80°C and blend for 20–30 seconds until the drink is smooth and covered with foam.
You can add cinnamon, cardamom, chili, or other spices and a pinch of salt to taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, sweeten it at the end of preparation.
Notes
Cacao naturally contains caffeine and theobromine.
Recommended storage conditions
Store in a cool, dry place. Reseal the package tightly after opening.
Additional information