Similar taste to chocolate without creamy cocoa butter and extraordinary sweet touch, cocoa powder has a slight sharp flavor due to concentration of dark chocolate.
Cocoa powder is naturally bitter, slightly acidic with the smell of chocolate. As a result, adding sweeteners and dairy is justified to transform this spice into desserts.
What to eat with cocoa powder? Cocoa powder is widely used in biscuits, cookies, ice cream, cakes, and drinks. Apart from this usage, it can also be used as coatings for confectioners or frozen desserts.
Cocoa powder is a primary ingredient in brownies, and it is commonly served in hot chocolate, oatmeal, cupcakes, smoothie, bread, and pancakes.
From wine to nuts and fruits, there are many ingredients that complement a spoonful of cocoa powder. Other classic pairing with cocoa powder include peanut butter, raspberry, and mint.
Cocoa powder is a crucial ingredient for chocolatey desserts that many people fancy! It’s also great for adding subtle chocolate flavor to savory dishes and batters.
But how exactly should it be used in cooking? Here is a quick guide to using cocoa powder.
Can you eat cocoa powder raw?
Yes, you can eat cocoa powder raw, but the taste isn’t going to be very pleasant. Dark or bittersweet cocoa will be very acidic with little sweetness to appease the palate.
Cocoa powder is made by removing the fat from the chocolate liquor in the cocoa bean. This process leaves behind a bitter, chalky taste without being sweet.
Eating unprocessed cocoa powder would still deliver maximum health benefits, but it is not enjoyable to eat it that way because it is very bitter without the sweetness.
What can cocoa powder be used for?
In general, cocoa powder is main ingredient for making chocolate, but there are several culinary uses with it. Depend on the mixture being sweetened or unsweetened powder, cocoa can be used in drinking beverage or baking.
Other than chocolate making, cocoa powder is used for:
- flavoring ice cream, biscuits, cookies, brownies, cakes and other baked goods
- dusting cakes with elusive designs
- blend with milk or coffee
- dessert sauces
- coatings for frozen desserts and confectionery
- sprinkle over fruit and salads
- combine with nuts and dried fruit for trail mix
- add on cereal, yogurt, and oatmeal for breakfast
- stir in tablespoons to smoothie
What to make with cocoa powder?
Cocoa powder is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It can substitute bittersweet chocolate in brownies or add to frostings to give them a deep chocolate flavor.
Additionally, it is commonly called for in baking recipes as it acts as a leavening that helps baked goods rise.
What flavor goes well with cocoa powder?
When properly used in sweet treats, cocoa powder adds depth to the flavor and a richness that can’t otherwise be achieved with just sugar alone. It also brings some bitterness into the mix so that it’s not too sweet.
In addition, desserts made with cocoa powder are more complex than their sugary counterparts.
However, the cocoa powder adds depth bitter and earthy of flavor without being too sweet in savory dishes. This makes it perfect for adding complexity to a dish without overpowering other ingredients like marinating meat or roasted vegetables.
Choosing a flavor that goes well with cocoa powder comes down to personal preference, regionality and recipe.
Cocoa powder and fruit are a match made in heaven, so pairing cocoa powder with sweet or savory tropical fruits like bananas, avocados, and oranges can do wonders.
Those who prefer savory treats can mix their cocoa powder into chili or use it to make black bean burgers. To add a nutty taste and a bit of crunch, go with some ground nuts like almonds or pecans.
When it comes to spices, cinnamon and vanilla also go well with cocoa powder, and it’s easy to add on top of things like cupcakes and cookies.
Here are classic flavor combination to try with cocoa powder other than sweets:
- cocoa powder + soy milk + lime + garlic + chili powder
- cocoa powder + butter + brown sugar + eggs + flour
- cocoa powder + heavy whipping cream
- cocoa powder + chicken + tomato sauce + brown sugar + apple cider vinegar
- cocoa powder + almond milk + oats
Eat with Cocoa Powder: Conclusion
The flavor of cocoa powder can shine depending on the paring. Consider experimenting with different recipes, glazes, and sauces to find something that works.
Most cocoa powders are used to make chocolate, cookies, ice cream, cakes, and drinks with milk for hot chocolate or coffee to create mocha.
In baking, it’s useful for decorating cakes with frosting or in desserts such as pudding or mousse.
One approach can be going the traditional route and baking it into something sweet like brownies or muffins. Cocoa powder is fairly versatile, so be sure to add it to glazes, sauces, and stews when looking for a savory meal.
Consider adding spoonful of cocoa powder in your favorite breakfast including cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, and pancakes. On top of that, add a side of fruit, toasted nuts, and fresh mint herbs to garnish a plate that complements well with cocoa flavor.
Cocoa powder can be consumed raw, however it can taste too bitter and chalky by itself. Therefore, use the recommended flavor combinations and to enjoy every bite of cocoa pleasure.