There's something deliciously magical about chocolate. It’s one of those items that can spark joy in so many people. As well as comfort, with a side note of indulgence too! But just what is it that makes us go coco for the Cocoa?!
And, did you know that somewhere along the line there are medicinal benefits to that indulgence too? Let us dive into the world of chocolate, meet some amazing local chocolatiers, and in time for Autumn to come a-knocking lets discover how to make the best hot chocolate using Ooh! Chocolata Luxury Drinking Chocolate.
Why is Chocolate So Irresistible?
Chocolate's charm comes down to a perfect blend of taste, texture, and chemistry. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet, slightly bitter taste are just so satisfying. But there’s more to it than just flavour - there’s chemistry involved too:
1. Theobromine and Caffeine: Chocolate contains theobromine and a small amount of caffeine, which can give you a gentle energy boost. The theobromine however is known to lower blood pressure which can have far reaching benefits - although we don’t advise a 100% chocolate diet just based on this!
2. Phenylethylamine (PEA): Known as the “love drug,” PEA is a compound that our brains release when we fall in love. Chocolate contains PEA, which can trigger feelings of happiness and well-being.
3. Serotonin and Endorphins: Eating chocolate releases serotonin and endorphins in the brain, which are chemicals that make us feel good.
So just those 3 things suggest that we’re onto a winner with chocolate, but it doesn’t stop there, there are medicinal benefits to chocolate too…
Surprisingly, chocolate isn't just a treat; it can also be good for you (and like we said before, in moderation, of course!):
1. Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals - these are the unstable atoms which can cause illness, aging and damage to cells.
2. Heart Health: Some studies suggest that dark chocolate can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.
3. Brain Function: The flavonoids in dark chocolate can increase blood flow to the brain, potentially improving cognitive function.
Meet the Chocolatiers
Here at Boxlocal we work with several local Chocolatiers, all of which are just fabulous.
Zara's Chocolate
Zara's Chocolate, based in Bristol on North Street in Southville no less. Zara’s is known for its handcrafted, artisanal chocolates. They use ethically sourced ingredients to create a variety of delectable treats, from classic truffles to innovative flavour combinations. A favourite of the team are the milk chocolate buttons - just yum!
Choc on Choc
Choc on Choc is a family-run business which was founded in Rode, just outside of Bath. Starting out with a novelty noughts and crosses mould, which is now their love and kisses product, they specialise in unique, handmade chocolates. Their creations are as fun as they are delicious, often featuring intricate designs and playful themes that make for perfect gifts.
CocoaLibre
CocoaLibre is dedicated to creating high-quality, dairy-free, nut-free and gluten-free chocolates that everyone can enjoy. Based in Yatton, North Somerset, Cocoa Libre were founded with the simple mission to create delicious chocolate that everyone can enjoy no matter what their dietary requirements are. Using rice milk, they produce a range of chocolates that are free from dairy, nuts and gluten but still
packed with flavor.
The Best Hot Chocolate Recipe!
Chocolate isn’t just for eating - as the days and nights draw in, hot chocolate becomes a firm fixture on the beverage listing! Here we tell you how to make the best hot chocolate, with a little help from our friends at Ooh! Chocolata who produce the most delicious luxury drinking chocolate. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
- 4 tablespoons of Oooh Chocolata luxury drinking chocolate
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, depending on how much of a sweet tooth you have!)
- A pinch of sea salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows (for topping, also optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until it's hot but not boiling. Or if you’re in a rush the microwave will do, but be careful not to let it bubble up and boil over.
2. Add the Chocolate: Whisk in the Ooh! Chocolata drinking chocolate until fully dissolved.
3. Sweeten to Taste: Add sugar if desired, and a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavour.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if you like.
Sip and savour the rich, velvety goodness of your homemade hot chocolate. It's the perfect treat for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Celebrate Chocolate
So whichever way you wish to indulge, you can add any or all of the chocolate to a luxury Boxlocal hamper, for any occasion - or even just treat yourself!
