Make this Easter a feast for the senses by elevating your celebrations with a decadent Rooibos and chocolate tasting. Pairing tea or herbal tisanes with chocolate is a culinary delight that can unlock subtle flavors and aromas, enhancing your enjoyment of both treats.
Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the SA Rooibos Council (SARC), notes that Rooibos and chocolate are ideal companions for Easter festivities. “Both Rooibos and chocolate evoke feelings of comfort, indulgence, and reflection, perfectly aligned with the spirit of Easter. Enjoying a cup of Rooibos alongside chocolate can amplify these sentiments.”
She adds, “Rooibos and chocolate share similar characteristics, from fruity and floral aromas to slight levels of astringency, making them an ideal match.”
Beyond being used in chocolate bars and truffles, innovative chocolatiers worldwide are experimenting with Rooibos in chocolate drinks. This appeals to consumers seeking alternatives to traditional hot chocolate or coffee-based beverages.
Du Toit explains, “Rooibos-based chocolate drinks come in various blends like matcha and chai, combined with chocolate in different forms such as cocoa powder, chocolate syrup, or chocolate chips. These drinks are available in specialty cafes, tea shops, and artisanal chocolate shops, catering to adventurous consumers keen on exploring new flavor combinations.”
Here’s a decadent Rooibos and Chocolate Latte recipe perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth this Easter:
Rooibos and Chocolate Latte Recipe:
Instructions (per cup):
- Add 6g of Rooibos Latte mix to a 250ml cup.
- Pour 30ml of hot water into the cup.
- Melt 1-2 chocolate eggs (depending on size) and pour into the cup. Mix well.
- Add 220ml of freshly steamed milk or dairy alternative.
- Add chocolate sprinkles for Easter decoration and enjoy!
Without further ado, let’s embark on your Rooibos and chocolate journey. The following guide will walk you through the tasting experience at home, helping you savor the flavors of each Rooibos blend and chocolate, both individually and as a pairing.
Getting Started:
- Balance Flavor Profiles: Aim for a match that enhances both the flavor of the chocolate and the Rooibos blend. Look for complementing and contrasting flavors.
- Choose Quality Chocolate: Select good quality chocolate with varying amounts of cacao, including white, milk, and dark chocolate.
- Select Rooibos Blends: Choose Rooibos blends with flavors that complement or contrast with the chocolate to heighten the overall tasting experience.