Rachel NguWe all know Taiwan as the land of pearl milk tea, pineapple cakes and fried chicken, among many other popular food and snacks. But did you also know, Taiwan produces award-winning chocolates? Read on more to find out about Taiwan’s unique tree-to-bar chocolates.
From Tree to Bar
Choose Chiu’s Cacao Farm in Pingtung Taiwan. | Image credit: Loci Amica
The tree-to-bar concept in the chocolate-making process is relatively new in Taiwan. Chiu, the first bean-to-bar chocolate maker in Taiwan, planted his first trees in 2003. He first produced chocolates from scratch successfully in 2010, and kickstarted the trend of growing cacao and making chocolate in Pingtung, Taiwan. As it has only been about a decade, many don’t know that Taiwan grows cacao and produces chocolates!
Internationally-acclaimed Chocolates
Fuwan’s 62% Taiwan #1 Fleur de Sel Caramel Nama Chocolate. | Image credit: Fuwan Chocolate
Not only does Taiwan produce unique tree-to-bar chocolates, they have even won multiple awards! In 2017, Taiwan won its first medal at the International Chocolate Awards. The Tie Guan Yin tea-flavoured dark chocolate by Fu Wan Chocolate was a favourite among the judges. As a result, this unique Oriental flavour clinched a gold medal.
The next time you’re in Taiwan, don’t forget to check it out! You could visit a cacao plantation or even sign up for a DIY Chocolate Workshop!
Also read: A Taste of Taiwan: Pineapple Cake, Spicy Noodles and more!
