LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — As the United States marks its 250th birthday, Ethel M Chocolates is releasing a line inspired by how chocolate was made in the 18th century.
The “American Heritage” chocolate line is based on recipes that closely follow how chocolate was produced in the 1700s, according to chocolate historian David Borghesani.
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Chocolate as a drink
Before chocolate became a candy bar or a piece of filled chocolate, it was consumed as a beverage. In the United States, that practice dates to the 1700s, Borghesani said.
“If you enjoy a piece of American Heritage Chocolate, it’s based upon authentic recipes from the 1700s,” Borghesani said.
Six spices, all historically authentic
Borghesani said the American Heritage line is made with six spices authentic to early American chocolate making: cinnamon, nutmeg, anise, orange, vanilla and red pepper.
Chocolate was not made into edible solid pieces until the mid-1800s, he said.
Chocolate and the founding fathers
Borghesani said chocolate held significance well before it became a confection.
“Colonial soldiers were often served chocolate,” he said. “I mentioned our founding fathers like Washington, Adams, and Jefferson. They all documented their enjoyment of chocolate.”
America 250
Borghesani connected the product directly to the national anniversary celebration.
“If you enjoy a piece of American Heritage Chocolate, experience the way people would have enjoyed food, specifically chocolate, back 250 years ago,” he said. “This is all part of America 250.”
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