History Behind Hot Chocolate
The original hot cocoa recipe was a mixture of ground cocoa beans, water, wine, and peppers with the Spaniards drinking this mixture drank the chocolaty goodness as a relaxation tool at social functions or just because. The Spaniards then realized they could sweeten the mixture with sugar. After being introduced in England, milk was added to the after dinner treat. This was their “after dinner mint” so to speak.
The word chocolate is said to derive from the Mayan word xocoatl; cocoa from the Aztec word cacahuatl. The Mexican Indian word chocolat comes from a combination of the terms choco (”foam“) and (”water“). And soon developed into “hot cocoa” or “hot chocolate” depending on what part of the world you are in. It is thought of as a treat by Americans and as a necessity to others that feel chocolate is a very beneficial addition to their diet.
Chocolate has been know to help prevent certain forms of cancer as well as “cacao“, the source of chocolate, contains antibacterial agents that fight tooth decay. Of course, this is counteracted by the high sugar content of milk chocolate. The smell of chocolate may increase theta brain waves, resulting in relaxation and chocolate also contains phenyl ethylamine, a mild mood elevator.
So Drink Up!
To read a full history behind this frothy, chocolaty drink, please visit Wikipedia to learn more behind where “hot chocolate” came from and how it has developed into one of the most favored drinks among children and adults alike.
________________________________________________________
Earthly Eating Recipe
Firecracker Burgers with Lime Sauce
Serves: 4
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tbs. fresh lime juice
2 tsp. grated lime rind
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 lb. ground beef chuck
1 tbs. ground curry powder
1 tbs. jerk seasoning
1 tsp. salt
4 sesame seed hamburger buns, toasted
1 cup mixed greens
1. Combine first 5 ingredients into a small bowl and set aside.
2. Combine the beef and the next 3 ingredients in a large bowl. Shape into 4 patties. Grill, uncovered, over medium heat, turning occasionally, 13 to 15 minutes or until the beef is to your liking. Serve the burger on the sesame buns with the greens and the lime sauce you made from step 1.
Happy Eating!
Leave a Reply