Raw Vegan and the Debate on Cocoa Powder: Is It a Viable Option?
As a raw vegan, one of the most common questions is whether it is acceptable to consume cocoa powder. Often, this leads to polarizing debates in the raw vegan community. However, the truth is that where you stand on this matter largely comes down to your personal interpretation of the raw vegan lifestyle.
Understanding the Raw Vegan Lifestyle
The raw vegan lifestyle is centered around consuming uncooked, living foods. Raw vegans believe in the inherent benefits of consuming plant-based foods that have not been subjected to high heat, as they maintain the essential nutrients, enzymes, and living enzymes. The raw food movement originated in the early 20th century and has gained significant popularity in recent decades due to its health benefits and ethical considerations.
Is Cocoa Powder a Raw Vegan Food?
The crux of the debate centers on the process of making cocoa powder. Raw vegans must decide whether or not they consider roasted processes as a violation of their principles. The manufacturing process of cocoa powder involves roasting cocoa beans to develop the distinct flavor and texture. Here's a deeper dive into the process:
Roasting of Cocoa Beans: The beans go through a roasting process, which often involves high temperatures. This step is crucial for developing the flavors that are characteristic of cocoa.
Why Roasting Matters in the Raw Vegan Context
For raw vegans like myself, the question is whether roasting is an acceptable part of the process. Raw vegans believe that roasting destroys enzymes that are essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Some raw vegans argue that any product involving roasting is not a viable option, whereas others believe that the benefits of consuming cocoa powder outweigh the drawbacks. The decision is ultimately a personal one, reflecting an individual's values and interpretations of the raw food principles.
Alternatives to Raw Vegan Cocoa Powder
For those who find themselves unable to consume cocoa powder due to the roasting process, there are alternative options available. Here are a few suggestions:
Raw Cacao Powder
Raw cacao powder is made from minimally processed cacao beans, typically not roasted to such high temperatures as cocoa powder. This makes it a closer fit for the raw vegan lifestyle. Raw cacao powder retains more of the natural flavors and nutrients, and it is a great option for those who wish to avoid roasted products.
How to Prepare Raw Cacao Powder:
Gather organic raw cacao beans. Slice the beans into small pieces. Tumble roast the beans in a dehydrator at a low temperature until they develop a nutty aroma. Mint grinder or food processor to create a fine powder. Store the powder in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.This method requires some effort but results in a pure, unprocessed option that aligns with the raw vegan philosophy.
Other Non-Roasted Alternatives
Cacao Nibs: Cacao nibs are small pieces of unroasted cacao beans, often used as a crunchy addition to raw desserts. They offer a more raw and less processed alternative to cocoa powder. Hershey's Kisses: While this might seem unconventional, some raw vegans consume the dark chocolate ones that do not contain any milk or dairy products.Conclusion
The decision to consume cocoa powder or not as a raw vegan is a deeply personal one. There are no universal rules in the raw vegan community, and each individual must make this decision based on their own values and beliefs. Those who prefer to avoid roasted products can explore raw cacao alternatives, while others may find that the enjoyment of cocoa powder aligns with their lifestyle.