To use cacao tea, you brew ground cacao with hot water, much like coffee or herbal tea.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Prepare Your Brewing Device: Choose your preferred method: teapot, strainer, French press (cafetiere), or even a coffee maker.
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Add the Cacao: Place the ground cacao into your chosen brewing device. The amount will depend on your taste, but start with approximately 1-2 tablespoons per cup of water.
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Pour Hot Water: Pour hot, but not boiling, water over the cacao. The ideal temperature is around 200°F (93°C).
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Stir Gently: Gently stir the mixture to prevent clumping and ensure the cacao is fully immersed in the water.
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Steep: Allow the tea to steep for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to fully develop and infuse into the water. Embrace the chocolatey aroma that fills the air!
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Strain and Serve: If using a teapot or strainer, carefully pour the tea into your cup, leaving the cacao grounds behind. If using a French press, slowly press the plunger down to separate the grounds from the liquid.
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Customize (Optional): Enhance the flavor by adding milk, honey, maple syrup, spices (like cinnamon or chili), or even a pinch of salt to taste.
Cacao tea is a delicious and healthy alternative to coffee or traditional tea, offering a gentle energy boost and a rich chocolate flavor.