The true connoisseurs of everything refined are, of course, the French and cocoa beans are no exception. Beating the universally recognized favorites, it is French chocolate that is the best chocolate in the world, and France can rightfully be proud of it.
The first chocolate factory in the world was opened directly in France in 1659, and to this day, the confectioners of this country are distinguished from their world rivals by their ingenuity and creativity, and have many recipes. It was thanks to the chocolatier of this country that milk and bitter chocolate appeared.
When making the best French chocolate, it is forbidden to use vegetable and animal fats, and numerous manufactures skillfully combine several types of cocoa beans at the same time, which gives chocolate an exceptional bouquet.
Where did the chocolate come from
The priceless food of the gods and delicious delicacy discovered 1000 years ago in Mexico. Cocoa beans were cultivated by the Olmec civilization. Products from cocoa beans were eaten, used in rituals and applied to the body for beauty. There are mentions of cocoa beans and Maya, who seasoned a bitter drink with pepper and vanilla and consumed hot and unsweetened. From these facts, we can conclude that the recipe for French hot chocolate takes its roots in the culinary traditions of these peoples. This treat became so well-known and significant that they even began to use it as a monetary unit in foreign currency settlements.
As early as 1527, Cortez brought cocoa beans to Spain along with potatoes, tobacco, corn, and tomatoes. From this period began the conquest of Europe by chocolate. Monarchs of Spain became admirers of chocolate and one of them was the wife of Louis XIV Maria Theresa. It is thanks to her that chocolate comes into fashion and is served in a royal setting. Later, the wife of Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, introduced a new official position at the court - a chocolatier. The popularization of chocolate appeared in print and on posters. Tidbits were very expensive and available only to the nobility. Only in 1802 did this treat become readily available not only to the nobility, but also to ordinary people.
Beneficial features
On a cold winter morning and a cloudy rainy day, nothing improves your mood like a cup of hot French chocolate. Tidbits - this is one of the best French presents brought from a trip as a gift to friends. Its use is useful for the nervous system and figure, and the content of flavonoids strengthens the cardiovascular system, reduces the production of cholesterol, and raises the general tone of the body. Endorphins stand out - hormones of happiness. Chocolate pacifies, relieves anxiety and stress, and the taste of cocoa beans has no analogues in nature.
Interesting Facts
In 2013, the famous company Valrhona opened a unique museum that covers 700 square meters dedicated to cocoa beans. Here you can learn all about the production and history of chocolate and taste various sweets. One of its attractions was a waterfall made of liquid chocolate, in which I want to reach out and try it.
In addition to virtuoso chocolate studios, which are located almost anywhere in France, it is very common to make chocolate desserts with your own hands in the home.
Simple recipes
Now let's make true french chocolate. For the recipe you will need:
- milk 0.5 l .;
- whipped cream 0.6 l .;
- sugar;
- chocolate 100 g
Cooking:
- a bar of chocolate should be crushed;
- pour 250 milliliters of milk into the dishes and set on a small fire;
- without boiling and stirring, add chocolate without rushing;
- after the chocolate is completely dissolved, pour in the remaining milk and heat for 5 minutes, not bringing to a boil;
- remove the French chocolate drink from the stove and pour into glasses;
- garnish the drink with pre-whipped cream.
An invigorating and tasty drink is served hot. You can add sugar to the cup to taste.
The second recipe for French chocolate is equally tasty and invigorating. For him you will need:
- 100 g of chocolate;
- four cups of warm water;
- sugar.
Cooking:
- pour one cup of warm water into the dishes and dip the chocolate into it;
- after it melts a little, put on fire and completely dissolve while stirring;
- then add the remaining water and, stirring, bring to a boil;
- remove from heat and beat with a whisk;
- add sugar and pour a homogeneous mass into cups;
- serve hot.
You can add vanilla to this drink or garnish with cream. For example, in Paris, in one of the famous coffee houses, hot French chocolate is served with oysters, various spices and ginger.
Chocolate itself for these recipes can be chosen to taste, it can be either bitter or creamy. If you are a lover of sweets, then such a tasty recipe for making a drink will be to your taste and will pleasantly please loved ones.