What was once considered the drink of kings and now brings pleasure to the masses? It's chocolate! This ancient drink of kings is now the ultimate comfort food for billions of people worldwide. The Maya and the Aztec in Central America were first people to experiment with the cacao plant. They are said to have made a drink using cacao seeds and spices that was drunk by rulers, priests, rich merchants and prominent soldiers. When the Spanish conquered Central and South America, they took the plant back to Europe where within 100 years it was one of the most popular drinks on the continent. Today it is used in a variety of ways. There are all manner of candy bars, drinks, foods and even medicines. Plus chocolates are also considered an aphrodisiac.
Chocolate 's transformation from the spicy Meso-American drink to the confection modern humans know and love is an intriguing story. The Spanish took the plant to Europe where it was prized by the aristocracy. Many experimented with blends and roastings and soon seemingly every European country created their own unique blend. Some created a dark rich mix. Others blended the crushed cacao seeds with milk for a lighter sweeter flavor.
The addition of sugar to the blends gave rise to the flavors so popular today. Today chocolate gifts are among the most popular expressions of love in the world. That may be owing to its reputation for being able to both relax and arouse the person who eats it.