Ever wondered how chocolate is made? Let me take you through my recent visit to Wat Chocolate's factory in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Since its establishment in 2018, Wat Chocolate has become a key player in Cambodia's flourishing chocolate industry, supplying not only its own café but also various hospitality and F&B businesses.
My visit offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of bean-to-bar chocolate-making. The process starts in the pristine fields of Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri, where cacao pods are harvested from Kamkav farm—Cambodia's first cacao farm, established in 2014.
After harvest, the cacao beans undergo fermentation at carefully controlled temperatures to develop their taste, aroma, and color. This crucial step creates rich, complex flavors. The beans are then sun-dried to prevent mold growth and prepare them for roasting while preserving their fermented flavors.
Roasting marks the fourth stage of production, where Wat Chocolate uses various heat sources to reduce bitterness and enhance the cacao's natural flavors and aromas. The roasted beans are then cracked and winnowed, separating the shells from the pure cacao nibs—the heart of chocolate flavor.
Next, these nibs are ground into a smooth mixture called chocolate liquor. During grinding, the cacao butter is released, transforming the solid nibs into a liquid that becomes the base for all chocolate products.
The conching process follows, requiring precise temperature control to ensure consistent quality. This step smooths the texture, reduces any remaining bitterness, and develops the chocolate's final flavor profile.
Tempering comes next—a careful process of heating and cooling that gives the chocolate its characteristic glossy finish, satisfying snap, and smooth melt. This step helps the chocolate crystallize perfectly.
Finally, the chocolate is molded into shape. Once it cools, it's ready for packaging and enjoyment.
If you find yourself in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh craving something sweet, stop by Wat Chocolate. Their delectable chocolates make both a memorable treat and a perfect souvenir. Enjoyed this article? Subscribe to my FoodTalk Channel for more culinary adventures.
For more information check-out Wat Chocolate's Facebook page
For B2B | HoReCa check-out their website for more information
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