Exquisite Belgian Chocolate ¨C A Delicious Gift For Your Loved Ones - By: Ella Megan

You must have heard a lot about Belgian chocolates, but you may still be wondering what exactly they are, how they are prepared, and what makes them so unique. Belgium produces around 2, 00,000 tons of chocolates every year that are available at over two thousand candy stores. These handmade bite-sized delectable candies and lollies filled with dark chocolate, cream, and nuts are considered as the best chocolates in the world. And, it is not without reasons. Following is a brief rundown on the history of Belgian chocolate and why it is so popular.

History Of Belgian Chocolate

The origin of Belgian chocolate dates back to 1857 when a person named Jean Neuhaus used a special version of chocolate, called Couverteur. However, it was only during the 1900s when his grandson started using the Couverteur to create a variety of chocolate products, which he named as 'pralines'. These days, almost every American candy store sells sugary treats under the name 'pralines', but they are not Belgian chocolates. So, do not confuse the terms. The original 'pralines' could be filled with different nougats, such as fruits, hazelnut, milk, coffee, and even more chocolate.

Belgian Chocolate As Gifts

The first time when people started giving Belgian chocolates as gifts was in the year 1912. Even today, there are special wrappers available in almost all candy stores that have been designed specifically to wrap Belgian chocolates. These special wrappers are known as Ballotins. As compared to chocolates in the United States, the dark chocolate, milk chocolate, leonidas chocolate, and other candies in Belgium contain a larger percentage of cocoa.

Eating Pure Chocolate Is Not Unhealthy

Despite the mouth-watering flavor that Belgian chocolates have to offer, some people are still concerned whether it is good for their health. It can be commonly noticed that most people eat chocolates with a sense of guilt because they think it is unhealthy. However, the latest research and studies in this field have something else to say. It has been found that pure chocolates, such as the Belgian ones that are made of the seeds of the cocoa tree, contain lots of minerals, vitamins (especially vitamin E and B group vitamins), and even magnesium. And, we all know that these nutrients carry a wide of health benefits. Cocoa butter is also known to provide wonderful nourishment to skin and that is the reason why they are also used as a cosmetic base. L-Tryptophan is another important ingredient that cocoa contains, which can actually be very helpful in improving your mood. What is more, you will be glad to know that chocolates, lollies, and candies made of pure cocoa contain more anti-oxidants than red wine and green tea. In fact, you may be surprised to know that dark chocolates that contain cocoa seeds have weight loss benefits too.

There are several famous chocolate recipes, which you can prepare even at your home. The best thing about Belgian chocolates is that they can help you make your favorite dessert without the use of any artificial elements, such as food colors or preservatives.

About the Author

Belgian chocolates are available in a variety of forms, such as lollies, candies, dark chocolates, milk chocolates, and others. Since they are made of pure cocoa, they also have several health benefits. If you want to know more information please visit at http://www.chocolatedeal.co.cc.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Ella-Megan/60954

Additional Articles From - Home | Food & beverage | Cooking