We receive our cacao from LavaLove cacao, harvested on the Pacific coast of Guatemala from a Mayan couple, Izaias and Ana Izabel. This blend is the result of a selection from various local farmers who preserve their Criollo cacao trees, who look after their cacao plantations organically (without chemical fertilizers). The criollo is the original species of cacao tree, and this blend is selected for the ultimate healing and beneficial qualities both physically and spiritually.
The aroma of the cacao is soft in the mouth, with floral notes and powerful earthy flavours in the end. The consumption of ceremonial cacao belongs to an ancient culture and traditions and by supporting Lavalove Cacao you are supporting this Mayan community's commitment to providing ceremonial cacao and treating it as a sacred food and a healing tool. Its production is aligned with respect for the environment, including roasting, grinding and biodegradable packaging.
The cacao is roasted on a metal plate where thousands of tortillas were cooked for children of Mayan descent. It is then roasted to purify with fire any kind of bacteria that appears naturally after fermentation. Each one of the cacao beans are roasted and hand-peeled, by indigenous families, where the Kaqchikel Maya language is spoken.
Izaias and his wife perform traditional Mayan ceremonies in Guatemala. Izaias is a Mayan Daykeeper (Shaman) who has been studying cacao and working with cacao since he was a child, and is working to preserve the traditional language, customs and heirloom cacao species. Izaias and his wife perform traditional fire ceremonies as well as Mayan calendar readings.
The cacao comes packaged in 1 pound bricks, for preparation guidance DM us on Instagram @rainbowbridgeco or e-mail us at hello.rainbowbridge@gmail.com