The Best Ceremonial Cacao to Buy Online

When we consider purchasing ceremonial cacao, several vital factors need our attention. We must make informed decisions to ensure we get a high-quality product.

Origin and Ethical Sourcing

Our first focus is the cacao's origin. We look for cacao that is ethically sourced. This means the cacao farmers receive fair wages and work under good conditions. The country and region where the cacao is grown can significantly influence its flavor profile due to differences in soil, climate, and cultivation practices.

Pureness and Ingredients

We must examine the ingredients. Pure ceremonial cacao should ideally contain only one ingredient: 100% pure cacao paste. It should be completely free from additives, preservatives, refined sugars, or artificial flavors, ensuring we experience the cacao’s authentic taste and spirit. Always check if the company offers independent, third-party lab test results verifying that their batches are low in heavy metals like cadmium and lead.

Processing Method

The method used to process the cacao beans is also crucial. Traditional methods with minimal processing are preferred, as they preserve the cacao’s natural properties.

Packaging and Freshness

We should also assess the packaging and shelf life. Proper packaging ensures the cacao's freshness and quality over time. We prefer packaging that protects the cacao from light and moisture. Remembering these guidelines will help us select the best ceremonial cacao. As consumers, it is our responsibility to seek quality and support ethical and sustainable practices in the cacao industry.

1. Regular option

To prepare a ceremonial cacao drink, you can follow this simple recipe:

1. Start with 20-50g of chopped or grated ceremonial cacao, depending on your preference for strength.
2. Heat 100-200ml of spring water or plant-based milk. The amount of liquid will determine the thickness of the drink.
3. Combine the heated liquid with the cacao in a blender.
4. Blend until smooth and frothy.
5. Optionally, you can add sweeteners like honey or agave to taste, and enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or other spices according to your preference.

2. My everyday recipe

This is not a recipe for preparing ceremonial cacao. I use it daily instead of coffee. I am also on a keto diet, so I make it more keto-friendly and add some extra fats. I guess extra fats make it more foamy at the end, especially if you use a blender to mix it.

1. Start with 20-50g of chopped or grated ceremonial cacao, depending on your preference for strength.
2. Heat 100-200ml of spring water or plant-based milk (I like homemade almond milk). The amount of liquid will determine the thickness of the drink.
3. Combine the heated liquid with the cacao, 1 Tbsp. of MCT Oil (I use "Bulletproof Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil"), and optionally Organic Cocoa Butter (I use "Yupik Organic Cocoa Butter Wafers" and add 4-5 wafers) in a blender.
4. Blend until smooth and frothy (I use "Nutribullet Personal Blender" but you can use regular mixer as well)
5. Optionally, you can add spices or sweeteners like honey or agave to taste and enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or other spices, according to your preference.

Enjoy your ceremonial cacao drink as part of a mindful ritual or meditation practice.