Cocoa nibs: what you need to know about them

In order to get to the bottom of this question, we will examine various questions relating to dark gold in this text. Do you still have questions about nibs? Then please get in touch with us. As you may have noticed by now, we know a lot about chocolate, cocoa beans and cocoa nibs. That's why we're always happy when we can share our knowledge with others. And that's why the curtain is raised for: the cocoa nibs!

What are cacao nibs?

Cocoa nibs are small pieces - i.e. crushed cocoa beans - that have a slightly bitter, chocolatey taste. There are roasted and unroasted nibs, the latter is commonly referred to as raw. Whether raw or roasted: Cocoa nibs are processed cocoa beans. After harvesting, the latter are dried, fermented and finally chopped into small, dark pieces – nibs.
The taste and aroma of the cacao nibs are highly dependent on the variety, the fermentation process and the roasting profile of the cacao beans. There are different types of cocoa beans - you can find out more about this in our article about cocoa beans. They develop different aromas depending on their origin and type of cultivation. The second key to taste is the way it is fermented. After all, the taste of the nibs can be influenced during roasting – or simply by omitting it. Raw cacao bean nibs often have a more fruity flavor. Roasted nibs, on the other hand, tend to have light roasted notes and a strong chocolaty taste.

What are cacao nibs made from? ©Unsplash

What can you do with nibs?

Fans of (pretty) dark chocolate quickly get a taste for nibs too. Not only are they rich in chocolate, they are also super tasty and healthy . Milk chocolate lovers, on the other hand, might have their problems with the nibs. But there is a remedy here too: our caramelized cocoa nibs are nice and mild, a little sweet and not bitter at all. These are wonderful as a snack between meals, in muesli or as a topping for yoghurt or porridge. But that's only mentioned in passing. Of course, the same applies to natural nibs, such as our roasted nibs in the shop . These can also be integrated into different morning dishes such as porridge, muesli and the like.

Bake to the roots

Incidentally, nibs can also be used wonderfully for cooking. For example, we use them regularly in banana bread or in dark chocolate cookies. Especially its crunch but also its slightly bitter note are a great addition. If you like it healthier, you can also make Energy Balls or Bliss Balls with the cocoa nibs . You can also make an excellent cocoa brew from the nibs, supplemented with a few cocoa shells.

Cocoa nibs in action ©Unsplash

From Nibs to Bar

Of course, you can also use the nibs to do the obvious: chocolate. Admittedly, this chocolate might not be like you're used to. Ground with a stone mill, a homemade chocolate can be an exciting alternative to the chocolate from the supermarket shelf. And another advantage: you know exactly what's inside. No additives, no plasticizers and no vegetable fats. The homemade bars only contain what belongs inside: cocoa beans and (cane) sugar.

You want to buy cocoa nibs? Look no further!

If you've always wondered where to buy cacao nibs - you've come to the right place at Theyo. We don't just have boring supermarket nibs like at Edeka or Rewe on the corner. As already mentioned, the cocoa bean variety has a big impact on the taste of the nibs. We have Arriba Nacional cocoa nibs from Ecuador - gently roasted and lightly caramelized - or pure and roasted . Our nibs are not only delicious and organic, but also directly from Ecuador - directly, fairly traded without intermediaries. You can find out more about how we work here .

Are you really interested in cocoa beans?

Then we would also like to draw your attention to our company offer at this point: you can find out everything you always wanted to know about chocolate – and nibs – at one of our chocolate tasting team events for companies. you already know everything? Then aquarantine care package might be interesting as an employee gift . Just stop by.