Tea and chocolate - a perfect combination
Chocolate has been one of the world’s most beloved treats for centuries, and today we have access to a wide variety of chocolates, from sweet milk varieties to intense and complex dark chocolates with high cocoa content. Dark chocolate, with a high cocoa content, in particular, has received a lot of attention due to its rich taste, nutritional content and health benefits. When this luxurious chocolate is combined with tea, the result can be an unparalleled taste experience!
The background of chocolate
Chocolate has a long and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years, originating in the ancient civilizations of Central America. The Mayans and Aztecs cultivated cocoa beans and made a bitter drink called "xocolatl," which they believed had both health and spiritual benefits. Cocoa beans were seen as a valuable resource, and were even used as currency.
It wasn't until the 16th century, when the Spanish brought cocoa to Europe, that chocolate began to take on the sweet form we know today. By mixing cocoa with sugar and milk, Europeans created what we now associate with chocolate. But dark chocolate, especially that with a high cocoa content, has retained some of the original, rich, and complex flavor that early civilizations valued.
The benefits of chocolate with 70% cocoa
When we talk about 70% cocoa chocolate, we are referring to a chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa solids, with the rest consisting mainly of sugar and cocoa butter. This type of chocolate is considerably less sweet than milk chocolate and has a more intense flavor, with bitterness and complex aromas that can include notes of fruit, nuts, coffee and even smoke.
The benefits of choosing chocolate with a high cocoa content are many:
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Rich in antioxidants : Cocoa is one of the richest natural sources of flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that can protect our cells from free radical damage. The flavonoids in high-cocoa chocolate have been linked to improved heart health, including reduced blood pressure and better blood circulation.
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Less sugar : Chocolate with 70% cocoa contains significantly less sugar than milk chocolate, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake, while still providing a satisfying chocolate experience without being overly sweet.
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Complex flavor profile : Because high-cocoa chocolate has less sugar and more cocoa solids, it has a deeper, more complex flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore more sophisticated flavor combinations, such as with tea.
Pairing tea and chocolate with 70% cocoa
We believe one of the best ways to enjoy chocolate is to pair it with tea. The subtle flavors and varying characteristics of tea can complement or contrast the intense flavor of chocolate, creating a balanced and harmonious experience. Here are some suggestions for how to pair 70% cocoa chocolate with different types of tea.
Black tea and dark chocolate: A classic combination
Black tea is known for its strong flavor and malty notes, making it an excellent match for chocolate with a high cocoa content. The rich, robust flavor of black tea can complement the bitter undertones of chocolate, while the natural sweetness of the tea can soften the intensity of the chocolate.
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Earl Grey : The bergamot-scented Earl Grey can add a citrusy freshness that contrasts with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, creating an interesting balance between fruitiness and richness.
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Assam : Assam tea, with its strong and malty flavor, can enhance the earthy character of chocolate and provide a hearty, warming combination.
Green Tea and Chocolate: A Subtle Experience
Green tea has a lighter and more vegetal flavor profile than black tea, and this can provide a subtle but effective contrast to the intense flavors of dark chocolate. Green tea also contains natural bittering compounds, which can harmonize well with the bitterness of chocolate.
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Sencha : Japanese Sencha tea has a fresh, grassy flavor that can provide a clean contrast to the richness of chocolate. This is a combination that highlights the natural qualities of both the tea and the chocolate.
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Matcha : Matcha, with its creamy texture and rich umami flavor, can provide a velvety counterpoint to dark chocolate's bitter notes. Together, they create a smooth, almost luxurious flavor combination.
White tea and chocolate: Delicate notes
White tea, which is the least processed type of tea, has a very delicate flavor profile with floral and slightly sweet notes. When paired with 70% cocoa chocolate, it can highlight the finer nuances of the chocolate, such as fruity or floral undertones.
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Silver Needle : This exclusive white tea has a silky texture and subtle flavors of flowers and honey. When paired with dark chocolate, it can provide an interesting contrast between the delicate and the intense.
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White Peony : White Peony has a bit more body than Silver Needle, with a mild sweetness that can balance out the bitterness of the chocolate. Together they provide a well-balanced and elegant experience.
Herbal tea and chocolate: Creative contrasts
Although herbal teas do not contain Camellia sinensis leaves (as all true teas do), herbal teas can offer exciting combinations with dark chocolate. Since herbal teas have a wide flavor palette, you can find endless combinations that enhance or contrast the flavors of the chocolate.
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Peppermint : A classic combination, peppermint and chocolate always work together. The cool freshness of the peppermint tea highlights the richness of the chocolate, creating a refreshing and satisfying combination.
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Rooibos : This South African tea has a natural sweetness and a nutty flavor that can complement the depth of chocolate. Rooibos's richness makes it an ideal match for dark chocolate.
Chocolate with 70% cocoa is more than just a treat – it’s a taste experience filled with complex aromas and depth. When paired with tea, you can explore new flavor dimensions that highlight both the intense character of the chocolate and the subtle nuances of the tea. No matter what type of tea you prefer, there’s a perfect match for every type of chocolate lover.
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Om forfatteren:
Kjetil Eide er en anerkjent te-ekspert og grunnleggeren av Norges Tehus. Med over 15 års erfaring har han bygget opp en solid kunnskap om te og har mottatt flere utmerkelser, inkludert tre stjerner i den prestisjetunge Great Taste Awards. Les mer