Xocoalt
Step back in time with the ancient, invigorating drink, Xocoatl—a traditional Mayan and Aztec chocolate beverage that’s as bold as it is captivating. Made by roasting cacao beans to enhance their intense, natural flavors, this recipe combines earthy cacao with the warm spice of chili powder, aromatic cinnamon, and the delicate sweetness of vanilla bean. Each sip delivers a rich, velvety experience with just a hint of optional honey for balance. Perfect for those seeking a deep connection to history through their palate, this rustic, dairy-free drink is simmered to perfection and served hot, offering a glimpse into the roots of chocolate culture. Garnish with a sprinkle of chili powder or a cinnamon stick for an authentic finishing touch, and let yourself be transported to a time when chocolate was pure, ceremonial, and utterly transformative.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 100 grams Cacao beans
- 500 milliliters Water
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 whole Vanilla bean
- 1 tablespoon Honey (optional)
Instructions
Begin by roasting the cacao beans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The beans are done when their shells begin to crack and their aroma becomes intense.
Let the roasted cacao beans cool slightly, then remove the shells by cracking them gently and separating the nibs. Discard the shells.
Using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, grind the cacao nibs into a fine paste. This process may take several minutes and require patience.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds using the back of a knife. Add both the seeds and the pod to the boiling water.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cacao paste, chili powder, and ground cinnamon. Whisk continuously until the cacao paste is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If you prefer a slightly sweetened drink, stir in the optional honey at this stage.
Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into serving cups, discarding any solids.
Serve the Xocoatl hot and sip it slowly to savor the rich, layered flavors. Optional: garnish with a sprinkle of chili powder or a cinnamon stick.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
323 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.7 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.0 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 84 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 80.0 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.4 g | 141% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.4 g | ||
| Protein | 13.2 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 166 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 14.6 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 1579 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
