Hawaii is well known for its delicious, tropical fruit like papaya, pineapple, and lilikoi. The North Shore is also an ideal environment for growing “chocolate trees.”The seed of this exotic fruit can be processed and made into Hawaiian chocolate. Explore the list below to find out why this amazing ingredient is not only delicious, but also surprisingly healthy.  

5 Most Notable Details About Hawaiian Chocolate

1. It Comes From a Tree 

The cacao fruit tree, also known as Theobroma Cacao, meaning “Food of the God” – produces cacao pods which are cracked open to release the cacao beans. Trees can only been grown 22 degrees north or south of the equator. Once the pods are harvested, cracked, fermented and dried on the farm, they are then given to a skilled chocolate maker. A tremendous amount of time and skill is required from bean to bar to make single origin, hand crafted Hawaiian Chocolate. 

2. It’s a Superfood 

Cacao is a natural source of antioxidants and nutrients. It has 40 times the antioxidants of a blueberry. It’s also full of plant-based iron and calcium. People who eat it on a regular basis may enjoy lower cholesterol, a reduced risk of heart disease, and enhanced mood. 

3. It Has an Exotic Flavor 

The taste of dark chocolate is not the same as eating milk chocolate. It has a deep and full flavor and a smooth texture. While a 100% cacao (otherwise known as nibs) provides you with an abundance of antioxidants and a potent amount of nutrients, the flavor profile is known to be slightly bitter. Many people prefer bars made up of 60-80% cacao since they offer health benefits and full flavors that will highlight the region and origin of the tree. 

4. It’s a Rare Form of Chocolate 

Hawaii is the only place in the United States with a climate suitable for growing cacao, making Hawaiian chocolate one of the rarest types on Earth. Its scarcity makes it an exclusive product. Hawaiian chocolate is highly sought after by people who live in the islands and all chocolate lovers across the world. 

5. It’s Grown on Family Farms 

Today Cacao is suffering from a worldwide disease that is killing many of the trees in South America, creating a global shortage of high-quality cacao. Because of this, Hawaii is noted to have potential as the up and coming “Napa Valley” of chocolate. Cacao trees grow on only a handful of farms throughout Hawaii, but today more and more family farms are excited to become a part of the growing Hawaiian chocolate industry. 

If you’re interested in learning how cacao is harvested or want to pick up a few chocolate bars of your own, it’s time to visit Kahuku Farms on the North Shore of Oahu. They offer tours where you can visit the field where cacao trees grow. Visit the Farm Cafe at Kahuku Farms to enjoy the flavors from their field and one of a kind handmade gifts! To schedule a visit or ask about their Hawaiian chocolate, call them at (808) 628-0639. You can also learn more about their one-of-a-kind, 70% cacao bars on their website. Read visitor recommendations and discover their family activities for locals and tourists on their Facebook page.