Cacao Ceremony Preparations
A cacao ceremony is a modern, spiritually oriented practice adapted from ancient Mesoamerican traditions, where pure, minimally processed cacao is consumed with intention to foster gratitude, presence, and connection. This a gentle plant medicine that opens the heart and enhances our intuition. It is typically guided by a facilitator in a calm setting and emphasizes three core principles: gratitude, intention, and reciprocity.
Gratitude
✳︎
Intention
✳︎
Reciprocity
✳︎
Gratitude ✳︎ Intention ✳︎ Reciprocity ✳︎
Cacao Recipes
Ana’s Cacao
20-25g* of cacao shavings
6-8oz of hot water
1/3 teaspoon of cinnamon (Saigon is best, but regular cinnamon works too)
1/2 teaspoon of agave or raw honey if you would like to sweeten it
*3/4 ounce
Ana’s Spicy Cacao
20-25g* of cacao shavings
6-8oz of hot water
1/3 teaspoon of ginger
1/3 teaspoon of cinnamon (Saigon is best, but regular cinnamon works too)
A sprinkle of cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon of agave or raw honey if you would like to sweeten it
*3/4 ounce
Laura’s Cacao
10-15 cacao discs or
4oz of coconut milk**
4 oz of hot water
1/2 teaspoon of agave or raw honey if you would like to sweeten it
**or your favorite plant milk
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARATION:
Using a Cacao Block
Use a cheese grater or sharp knife to shave the cacao block into small pieces. Place the shavings in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until melted. Watch closely to prevent burning. Gradually add your liquid, stirring frequently until smooth. Gently increase the heat to medium-low and warm—do not boil. If needed, use an immersion blender to fully combine the mixture.
Using Cacao Discs
Place the discs in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until melted. Watch closely to prevent burning. Gradually add your liquid, stirring frequently until smooth. Increase the heat to medium-low and continue warming without boiling.
Using Cacao Powder
Combine the cacao powder and liquid in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until smooth, then increase the heat to medium-low and warm without boiling.
If the cacao is too thick, add more liquid. If it is too thin, add more cacao.
Pour the cacao into a favorite cup or meaningful vessel. Add spices or sweetener to taste.
Where to Find Cacao?
🤎 Pacha Mana (allow about one week for delivery)
🤎 Ora Cacao Discs (their sample packs are a wonderful place to start)
🤎 Terra Soul Cacao Powder (I recommend mixing it with full-fat coconut milk for a rich, delicious cup)
🤎 Or visit your favorite local natural foods or health food store to see what they carry.