Oaxacan-style hot chocolate is more than just a drink; it’s a rich cultural experience that embodies the vibrant traditions of Oaxaca, a region in southern Mexico known for its culinary heritage.
This beloved beverage is a staple in Oaxacan households, often associated with family gatherings and celebrations.
Let’s explore the history of Oaxacan chocolate, learn how to make it the traditional way, and discover how this ancient drink can add warmth and delight to your modern-day celebrations.
History of Oaxacan Chocolate
Oaxaca has a long and storied history with chocolate, a legacy dating back to the Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations that once thrived in the region.
Oaxacan Cacao Beans
Chocolate, derived from cacao beans native to Mesoamerica, held immense significance in Mayan civilization as it was an integral part of their culture and daily life.
The Mayans considered cocoa beans as valuable currency, using them for trade and exchange. Cacao played a crucial role in religious and social rituals as well.
The process of making chocolate in Oaxaca has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Traditionally, cacao beans are roasted, ground on a stone called a “metate,” and mixed with spices to create a rich paste.
Ancient Oaxacan Metate Or Mealing Stone
This paste can be mixed with water or milk to create the classic Oaxacan hot chocolate, known for its aromatic spices and deep, complex flavors.
Discovering Authentic Oaxacan Chocolate Brands
Oaxaca is known for producing several popular brands of chocolate tablets that are used in making traditional hot chocolate.
Some of these brands include the following.
Chocolate Mayordomo
Known for its rich flavor and traditional preparation methods, Mayordomo offers chocolate tablets often mixed with cinnamon and sugar.
Chocolate Guelaguetza
This brand emphasizes high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, providing chocolate with an authentic taste.
Chocolate Juquilita
The brand prides itself on preserving the rich cultural traditions of Oaxaca, delivering products that are perfect for making hot chocolate or using in various culinary applications.
Their chocolate is celebrated for its unique blends and robust, authentic flavors that capture the essence of Oaxacan heritage.
Chocolate La Soledad
This artisan brand produces chocolate tablets that are crafted using time-honored methods.
This involves selecting high-quality cacao beans and blending them with local spices such as cinnamon, perfect for making traditional Mexican hot chocolate.
Chocolate La Soledad is celebrated for preserving the culinary heritage of Oaxaca, offering products that reflect the region’s cultural and gastronomic richness.
The most popular brands of Mexican chocolate sold in the United States is Ibarra and Abuelita.
Chocolate Ibarra
Chocolate Ibarra is a popular Mexican chocolate brand known for producing traditional chocolate tablets used primarily for making hot chocolate.
Ibarra, makes chocolate tablets that are typically composed of ground cacao, sugar, and cinnamon, making it a convenient choice for a quick version of authentic Mexican hot chocolate.
Chocolate Abuelita
A beloved Mexican chocolate brand known for its iconic yellow packaging featuring the image of a grandmother or abuelita.
This brand offers chocolate tablets infused with a blend of sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa, perfect for making traditional Oaxacan hot chocolate.
All of brands offer tablets that are specifically crafted to be melted into hot beverages, delivering an authentic taste that reflects Oaxacan culinary traditions.
You can find these brands in local markets that focus on Mexican or Latin American products.
Modern Adaptation with Powdered Cacao
While traditional methods use solid chocolate tablets, a contemporary recipe using powdered cacao can also capture the spirit of Oaxacan hot chocolate.
Simply replace the chocolate tablets with 2-4 tablespoons of 100% cacao powder and sweeten it to taste with brown sugar.
Incorporate the cinnamon and any other spices as suggested and follow the same preparation method for a delightful drink.
Enjoy bringing a taste of Oaxaca to your home with this authentic hot chocolate recipe.
Whether you’re trying something new or connecting with your heritage, this drink is sure to warm your heart.
Oaxacan-Style Hot Chocolate
2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
8 ounces whole milk
8 ounces heavy cream
3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons creamy almond butter – Find Recipe Here
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
In a medium sized saucepan over medium-high heat, add milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, and heat until simmering, but don’t let the milk boil.
Lower the heat, add the almond butter, raw caca, vanilla extract, cayenne pepper and whisk gently until mixed well. Give it a taste to check for sweetness and spiciness.
For a smooth and frothy consistency, blend the mixture with an immersion blender (a whisk will work).
Pour your Oaxacan-Style Hot Chocolate into mugs and garnish with one or more of the following:
- Chocolate shavings
- Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Marshmallows
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