Chocolate

Map Chocolate Company

My new favorite brand of chocolate is Map Chocolate Co. Their handcrafted chocolate bars, with beans ethically sourced from around the world, are absolutely delicious. My first encounter was as a gift from the sister of the company’s founder. I opened up my beautifully packaged chocolate--each bar is wrapped in a foil lined map--and took a bite. Creamy, dark heaven, a blend of sweet and sea-salt that grabbed my attention. I thought, this would be wonderful paired with a full-bodied cabernet, or an espresso, or just by itself, savored, not rushed. The company’s website features a quote by Carlos Petrini, founder of the Slow Food Movement, that truly speaks for this chocolate: “The quest for slowness, which begins as a simple rebellion against the impoverished taste in our lives, makes it possible to rediscover taste.” Rumor is you can purchase these bars at Whole Foods, or you can go direct and order online. If you’re a chocolate lover, give them a try!

Theo's 70% Bars

For me, chocolate is a way to express love. Growing up, holiday angels would visit my bedroom while I slept and leave chocolate treats behind for me to discover in the morning. Chocolate bunnies on Easter, creme filled chocolates nestled in a large pink heart-shaped box on Valentine’s Day.  My Christmas stocking always had a dozen foil wrapped little Santa chocolates.  The taste of the chocolate was forgettable, but the feeling in my heart and spirit lingered lasts forever.

Theo’s 70% cocoa bar with sea salt is my go-to chocolate bar to break up and serve on a plate with fresh raspberries or cut strawberries and a wedge of Beecher’s cheddar.   Pair with a bottle of a smooth Cab, and I have set the culinary companion to a good evening.  Theo’s is a small Organic and Fair-trade chocolate factory based in Ballard.  I have enjoyed seeing the company rise and fold in the demands of increased production while still holding true to its values.