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More than 2000 years ago Mayan Indians in Mexico and Central America used ground cocoa beans to create a drink. Before consuming the beans, they used them as a form of currency. They only ground the beans when they were worn out.
In 1528 Cortez, a Spanish explorer, brought chocolate from the Aztecs to King Charles V in the form of cocoa beans. For a while the formula was a secret for the pleasure of the nobility. When the secret got out the drink's fame spread. The Spaniards became hooked on hot chocolate, mixing it with orange blossom water, or honey and spices.
We'll get to the cool facts about chocolate soon...
By the middle of the next century, chocolate drinks were gaining widespread popularity in France. An enterprising Frenchman opened the first hot chocolate shop in London. Samuel Peyps wrote about it in his diary. By the 1700's chocolate houses were as propular as coffee houses in England. Chocolate had reached most of the middle class throughout Europe and America, by the 19th century.
Confectioners discovered how to make solid eating chocolate from chocolate liquor, cocoa butter and sugar. Thus the chocolate industry was born. Modern manufacturing methods enable retailers to sell chocolate to everyone.
If you want to learn how to make scrumptious desserts with chocolate, I recommend Dessert University.
And now the fun chocolate facts!
Chocolate Facts
- Many believe that chocolate is an aphrodisiac, possibly because of the simple sensual pleasure of its consumption. Scientists suggest that theobromine and other chemicals do act as mild sexual stimulants. But we all know chocolate will win their heart.
- The word Chocolate comes from the Aztec word xocolatl, meaning, bitter water.
- 71% of American chocolate eaters prefer milk chocolate.
- It's true! Chocolate is The Food Of The Gods. Cacao beans come from a tree that is a species of the genus Theobroma, which translated is food of the gods.
- Chocolate is a great natural antidepressant. It contains tryptophan which helps you create serotonin, your body's own antidepressant.
- Contrary to popular belief, chocolate does NOT contribute to acne. However the milk in milk chocolate might, so enjoy the benefits of dark chocolate.
- Chocolate is poisonous to dogs (and other domestic animals). The Theobromine found in chocolate is a stimulatant, and can be too much for small animals.
- Chocolate contains high-quality anti oxidants that can protect you from developing cancer and heart disease.
- Chocolate is rich in magnesium and iron, which your body needs.
- Chocolate makers use 40% of the world's almonds and 20% of the world's peanuts.
- Chocolate's melting point is just below your body temperature, so it melts in your mouth. Melting chocolate in your mouth raises brain activity and heart rate more intensly than passionate kissing, and lasts four times longer!
You Can Buy Chocolate From Amazon!
Helen Grace Chocolates, Assorted Milk & Dark Chocolate Truffles, 14 oz. Wrapped Gift Box
Chocolate seashells, raspberry roses, cappuccino hearts and dark chocolate squares are filled with soft and creamy melt-away truffle centers. Delicious for any occasion.
Amazon Price: $16.25 (as of 12/09/2009) 
Helen Grace Chocolates, Assorted Milk & Dark Chocolates, 9 oz. California Collection Designer Box
The finest milk and dark chocolates featuring fruits and nuts from California. Includes caramel almond clusters, almond nougat, lemon and boysenberry creams and more. Original oil painting of the Southern California coastline on this designer box was painted by an award-winning artist for Helen Grace herself.
Amazon Price: $10.00 (as of 12/09/2009)
Helen Grace Chocolates, Sugar-Free Assorted Milk & Dark Chocolate Truffles, 8 oz. Gift Box
A delicious assortment of the creamiest sugar free truffles. Includes peanut butter, Grand Marnier (flavoring only), Rum (flavoring only), dark chocolate melt-away, raspberry and Black Forest in both milk and dark sugar free chocolate.
Amazon Price: $12.85 (as of 12/09/2009)
Helen Grace Chocolates, Assorted Milk & Dark Chocolate Truffles, 2 oz. Red Box, 3-pack
Chocolate seashells, raspberry roses, cappuccino hearts and dark chocolate squares are filled with soft and creamy melt-away truffle centers. Delicious for any occasion. Handpacked in gold tray. Convenient 3-pack.
Amazon Price: $10.50 (as of 12/09/2009)
Chocolate Recipes
- Dessert University
- Chocolate cakes, cookies, ice creams and more 4 star desserts on video! Comprehensive and supplemental video tutorial/instructional series that teaches how to create delicious tempting chocolate dessets and candies fast and at low cost.
Chocolate News
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What do you think?
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- OnlyFunStuff OnlyFunStuff Aug 6, 2009 @ 4:47 am
- Love chocolate love this lens 5*
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- BizSquid BizSquid May 1, 2008 @ 7:52 am
- I like you Chocolate lens. It makes me drool! Gave you a 5-star. Well done!
Hamzah
