Although the first thing that comes to mind when you think of chocolate may be European countries such as Switzerland and Belgium, did you know that chocolate is actually originally from Mexico? It’s a fact. The origins of Chocolate began thousands of years ago in Mesoamerica which is now modern day Mexico. At that time, the Mayans and Aztecs were some of its first consumers around 4000 years ago. Today, Mexican chocolate is available in a variety of formats and is also used in some types of traditional Mexican foods as well such as mole. If you have a vacation to Mexico on your mind, we suggest you call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573. They are a reputable online travel agency that has special low all-inclusive travel packages on sale right now to visit the country’s top destinations. Meanwhile, keep reading below to learn more about where chocolate came from.

 

Where Did Chocolate Come From? 

To start with, the word “chocolate” is derived from the Aztec word “xocolatl.”  As stated above, chocolate’s 4,000-year history began in ancient Mesoamerica, which is present day Mexico. At that time, fermented beverages made from chocolate date back to at least 1900 BCE to 1500 BCE. One of the earliest civilizations in Latin America was called the Olmec, and they were the first people that produced chocolate from the cacao plant. Chocolate was primarily consumed in a liquid form and was used during rituals and even as medicine. The chocolate drink was commonly used in a wide variety of important social events in everything from diplomatic alliances to marital negotiations. The Mexica people believed that cacao seeds were an important gift of Quetzalcoatl, the god of wisdom. In fact, the cacao plant seeds were considered so valuable that they were even used as a form of currency at one point.

The History of Chocolate

Secondly, cacao plants from which chocolate is made were first found in Mexico. While the Aztecs were not able to grow the cacao tree in Tenochtitlan which was the center of their civilization for many years, they acquired cacao beans through trade. The cacao plant was extremely valuable within the Aztec community, and the beans were used as the primary form of currency of the Aztec Empire and they were even taxed. Likewise, cacao beans were often stockpiled whenever possible, and considered as valuable as gold.  A small tropical tree called the Theobroma cacao tree is common throughout the tropics. Today, about 70% of the world’s cacao is grown in Africa. Later, the first chocolate bar was created in 1847 and currently the four biggest chocolate-producing countries in the world are Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Poland. Belgium is the largest producer that makes their chocolate by hand. 400 cocoa beans will produce one pound of chocolate, and each cacao tree produces approximately 2,500 beans.

Oaxaca is the Chocolate Capital of Mexico 

Are you curious where the best place to buy chocolate in Mexico is today? Many would consider the state of Oaxaca as the chocolate capital of Mexico.  Oaxaca is most famous for Mexican Hot Chocolate. There, the cacao that is produced in Oaxaca to make hot chocolate is often spiced up with cinnamon and served with almonds. Likewise, the roasting process used to create Mexican hot chocolate adds a characteristic flavor so it retains much of its rustic flavor and texture. Similarly, Qué Bo is considered the best chocolate store in Mexico and one of the best in the world according to “Le Guide de Croqueurs de Chocolat,” which is the world’s most respected guide of chocolate tasters. Today, Chocolate is found in a variety of forms including bonbons, bars, powders, and desserts. Chocolate is also found in a mole, which is a rich, chili based sauce used to accompany meat dishes or top enchiladas. Also, chocolate contains serotonin which stimulates the brain to relax the body and promotes happiness, too. 

 

Now you know that chocolate is a very  important part of Mexico’s rich culture and unique history. To explore the beauty of Mexico in person, why not book a trip to visit one of the country’s top coastal destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, or the Riviera Maya? Currently, online travel agency Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 has all-inclusive travel packages on sale that you can’t find anywhere else. During your dream vacation to paradise, you can also taste some of the best Mexican chocolate, too. Plus, you can even buy some to take home to share with friends or family as well. Don’t hesitate, and call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 right now. They have professional travel specialists ready to take your call that will help you select the perfect travel package to suit your needs and budget.