Bittersweet, slightly fruity aromas entice the senses, conjuring a deep sense of connection to the Earth. The onsite gardens boast a diverse sampling of edible tropical fauna all of which are high in nutritional and medicinal value. What Tao doesn't have onsite, she sources from farmers at local Ferias. Combining organic local products with pure chocolate increases the efficacy of all ingredients.
Tao's mission, in addition to educating people on the many benefits of fine dark chocolate and other plant medicines, is to change public perception with regards to media's portrayal of Superfoods. The term “Superfood” was created as a marketing term for foods with assumed health benefits. The term has no official definition. Chemical analysis will show nearly all organically grown fruits, vegetables and cooking herbs contain various amounts of nutrients essential to maintaining a healthy balance. Tao argues cutting out bags of sugar coated dried fruit labeled Superfoods for no other reason than to entice purchasing choices is essential and instead, individuals should be more proactive in incorporating nutrient rich foods into every meals and treats.
Today's chocolate creations are bon bons and bars made with Peruvian Ground Cherries grown onsite at the factory. Also known as Physalis Peruviana, Peruvian Ground Cherries are native to the mountain slopes of Peru and Chile. They are known as Picchu berries in the United States and oozeberries in the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa, grown there since the late 19th century. Costa Ricans call them Uchuva. Prone to self propagation, the plant enjoys a long growing season in most of Costa Rica. Ground Cherries can be found all year in local ferias and are used in cuisine in diverse and creative ways. They grow well in high altitudes 1,600 - 9,800 ft (500 - 3,000 meters). At 4,000 ft, Samaritan's location and tropical climate make the perfect conditions for the plant and it grows at the factory in abundance.
Physalis Peruviana is in the same family and genus as tomatillos. The fruit develops inside with a shell resembling a paper lantern. It's tart green apple flavor with light, fruity tropical undertones, containing both sweet and savory taste layers, make them a versatile ingredient in everything from desserts to salsas. High Pectin content makes the it a perfect base for marmalades, chutneys and jams. Juices and infused leaves are delicious in spirits and cocktails, salad dressing and sauces. Tao dehydrates the fruit, adding the tart, slightly sweet raisins to bars and creates a marmalade as a filling for bon bons.
Both Peruvian Ground Cherries and Cacao have extremely valuable medicinal qualities when combined increase the potential for effectiveness. Containing significant amounts of Vitamin C, thiamin, niacin, vitamin K, beta-carotene and healthy fatty acids, ground cherries have been used to improve vision, lower cholesterol, inhibit tumor growth and in treating diabetes, rheumatism, hepatitis, and cataracts. Leaves are used in topical treatments for legions and minor wounds.
Cacao has the highest concentrated amount of magnesium of any food which relaxes the heart muscles while softening tissues, loosening muscles and easing tension. It was used in ancient rituals with other plant medicine because it was known to help the body absorb and use whatever ingredients being administered with it. High amounts of cacao's active ingredient, theobromine increases blood flow to the brain while flavonoids protect the heart.
To get a taste of everyday Superfoods in delectable chocolate treats, visit Samaritan Xocolata in Canaan de Rivas, Costa Rica. The shop is open every day except Sundays. Workshops are available by appointment at the factory to teach people how to create their own variation of chocolate, significant to their individual health needs and preferences. If you can’t make the trek into up the mountain, many of the chocolate products are available online for home delivery through the website: www.samaritanxocolata.com
