When you think of Cuba, your mind might spring to Rum, cigars, old fashioned cars, sandy Varadero beaches or traditional Cuban music; but if you want to truly experience all of what Cuba has to offer, you shouldn’t forget about traditional Cuban cacao and chocolate.
Intrigued? Peckish? Let’s delve a little deeper…
A Brief History of Chocolate and Cacao in Cuba
Dating back as far as 1540, the cocoa crop continues to grow in Cuba, specifically in the eastern mountains of the island in the Baracoa area, which has proven itself as the perfect geographical location to grow, well, the very best cocoa for the very best tasting traditional chocolate.
In fact, there are many long-established highlights not to be missed when visiting this sun drenched isle, may it be Sugar, Rum, Tobacco, Coffee or music, and chocolate has definitely earned its place within this star-studded line up.
Cocoa is a rich part of Cuban history (pardon the pun), and local farmers have cultivated the art of cocoa growing, its secret’s passed down through generations – and when processed just right, the blends incorporate the region’s natural aromas, creating a beautifully earthy and slightly smoky flavour.
Unlike the chocolate found elsewhere, chocolate connoisseurs can indulge in the true art of cocoa-processing and chocolate making on the small farms that run along the rugged mountains of Barcoa. The area alone, with its beautiful eastern mountains surrounding the farmland full of luscious vegetation, waterfalls, beaches, caves and wildlife, is enough reason to book a trip to Baracoa, but with the added promise of a chocolate tour this is an unmissable part of your tropical adventure. In our humble opinion, anyway!
Discover the (perhaps)secret ingredients and intricate skills of talented local farmers, who blend these elements to create exquisitely delicious chocolate amid the cocoa fields of traditional Cuba. And hey, while you’re there, why not take the opportunity to explore the stunning countryside? Whether it’s trekking through scenic landscapes, taking a refreshing dip in a river, or soaking up the sights via horseback to uncover more of Cuba’s natural beauty – nature enthusiasts will find this corner of the country nothing short of breathtaking.
Scoff In The City
If you want to experience the taste of Cuba’s famous chocolate but want to stay closer to your luxurious hotel, why not indulge in one of the many famous chocolate shops with tasters and teachings all at your fingertips? The Museo del Chocolate is a firm favourite and Havana’s answer to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Step foot inside this tasting shop and you’ll have the chance to sample a plethora of mouth-watering chocolates, all handmade, all unique in flavour. The ‘Aztec Hot Chocolate’ with an added sprinkle of cinnamon and pepper (hear us out), is a must try for its special, bitter flavour. Equally, The House of Chocolate in Varadero is also worth visiting – it’s the perfect way to escape the Caribbean midday heat during your beach holiday.
No matter how you decide to spend your holidays to Cuba, it’s good to know that a helping of traditional Cuban chocolate is always within reach. Now, time to indulge!
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays, or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays – please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com.
