Raw Cacao Paste Criollo Powder Peru Ceremonial Grade - 200 gr

Criollo Cacao: A Legacy from the Amazon

Our Criollo Cacao is cultivated in the heart of Peru’s Amazon, a region recognized as the ancestral cradle of cacao. Long before it was shared with the world, cacao was an integral part of daily life for indigenous Peruvian communities. Today, the tradition continues, with small-scale farmers nurturing these rare beans from April to September, essential for their livelihood. These farmers, dedicated to preserving the purity of Criollo, work closely with cooperatives to bring this exceptional cacao to market.

The Criollo cacao tree, one of the original and rarest cacao varieties, flourishes primarily in Central and South America. Known for its unparalleled purity and delicate, aromatic flavors, Criollo cacao offers a chocolate experience unlike any other. Unlike the more commonly cultivated Forastero and Trinitario varieties, Criollo is less bitter and boasts a complex, fragrant profile, making it ideal for ceremonial use.

Nutrient-Rich Criollo Cacao

Our Criollo cacao powder is a powerhouse of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that offer numerous health benefits:

1. Flavonoids: Renowned for their antioxidant properties, flavonoids in cacao, such as epicatechin and catechin, help protect the body’s cells from free radical damage, reduce inflammation, and promote heart health by enhancing blood vessel function and lowering blood pressure.

2. Magnesium: An excellent source of magnesium, cacao supports over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar regulation, and blood pressure control.

3. Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood, the iron content in cacao helps prevent anemia and supports overall energy levels.

4. Antioxidants: Beyond flavonoids, cacao is rich in polyphenols, which can protect against chronic diseases, including heart disease.

5. Theobromine: This mild stimulant in cacao improves mental alertness and reduces fatigue. Theobromine also has a mild diuretic effect, supporting heart health.

6. Fiber: Cacao is high in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion, a balanced gut microbiome, and aiding in blood sugar regulation and weight management.

7. Healthy Fats: Cacao contains healthy fats like oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that can improve cholesterol levels and support heart health.

Versatile Uses

Our ceremonial-grade cacao powder is perfect for a variety of applications. Whether you’re brewing a rich, comforting drink, baking your favorite chocolate treats, or engaging in a cacao ceremony, this powder is designed to elevate your experience.

Ceremonial Usage

Ingredients:

• Raw, ceremonial-grade cacao powder
• Hot water (not boiling, to preserve nutrients)
• Optional additions: chili, cinnamon, vanilla, honey, or other natural sweeteners and spices of your choice

Preparation:

1. Set Your Intention: Begin by preparing your space and yourself. Whether through meditation, lighting a candle, or saying a prayer, express your gratitude and respect for the cacao plant and the natural forces it embodies.

2. Heat the Water: Warm the water until hot but not boiling, ideally between 70-80°C (158-176°F). This ensures the cacao melts without destroying its delicate nutrients and enzymes.

3. Mix the Cacao: Gradually add the cacao powder to the hot water. Adjust the amount of cacao based on your preferred strength and the size of your group, with a general guideline of 1-2 tablespoons per cup.

4. Stir with Intention: As you mix, stir gently. Some choose to sing, pray, or recite positive affirmations during this process to infuse the cacao with loving intentions.

5. Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, incorporate additional ingredients like chili for strength, cinnamon for protection, or honey for sweetness. Stir well to combine.

6. Taste and Adjust: Sample the cacao and adjust the flavor as needed, aiming for a drink that is both nourishing and enjoyable.

7. Serve and Share: Serve the cacao in a ceremonial setting, encouraging participants to hold the cup with both hands, set personal intentions, and slowly savor the drink.

8. Continue the Ceremony: Depending on the tradition or purpose of the ceremony, follow with activities such as meditation, dancing, singing, drumming, or storytelling.

Nutritional Information

• Energy: 1749 kJ / 418 kcal
• Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6.8 g
• Carbohydrates: 19.5 g
  • Sugars: 2.5 g
• Fiber: 32.5 g
• Protein: 27.8 g
• Salt: <0.1 g

Contents: Organic Raw Criollo Cacao Powder - 200 Grams

Experience the unparalleled taste and spiritual richness of this ceremonial-grade cacao, perfect for both your culinary creations and spiritual practices.