Raw chocolate offers a richer, more complex flavour profile than its processed counterparts. With less sugar and minimal processing, its intense cocoa flavour often has fruity, floral, and earthy notes. To fully appreciate raw chocolate’s nuances, pairing it with complementary foods can elevate the experience. Here are a few ideas, inspired by popular food bloggers, on how to make the most of this indulgent treat.
Fruit Pairings – Awww.. The Natural Sweetness
One of the easiest ways to complement the bold flavors of raw chocolate is by pairing it with fresh fruit. As Chocolate Covered Katie often highlights in her healthy dessert recipes, fruit brings a refreshing contrast to rich chocolates. The acidity of raspberries or strawberries can cut through the bitterness of raw cacao, while the creaminess of banana balances out its intensity. For a more exotic pairing, try mango or pineapple—their natural sweetness and juiciness bring out the chocolate’s deeper, caramel-like notes.
Raspberries & Strawberries – this creates a tart contrast
One of the most popular ways to pair raw chocolate is with berries, especially raspberries and strawberries. The natural acidity and tartness of these fruits cut through the richness of the raw cacao, offering a refreshing contrast that brightens up the chocolate’s complexity. Whether you dip fresh berries in melted raw chocolate or serve them alongside a raw chocolate bar, the combination is a symphony of flavor, balancing sweetness and tang with every bite.
Banana – this creates a smooth creamy contrast
For a richer pairing, consider banana. The creamy texture of a ripe banana is the perfect counterbalance to the more intense and sometimes slightly bitter taste of raw chocolate. Its natural sweetness complements the chocolate without overpowering it. You can enjoy a banana and raw chocolate smoothie, dip banana slices into raw chocolate fondue, or even create raw chocolate-covered banana bites. The result is a velvety combination of smooth fruit and indulgent chocolate—decadent yet simple.
Mango & Pineapple – this gives you the tropical sweetness that comes with the fruits
For those seeking a more exotic pairing, try mango or pineapple with raw chocolate. Both of these tropical fruits bring out the deeper, caramel-like notes of raw cacao, enhancing its natural sweetness. The juicy, fragrant nature of mango pairs especially well with chocolate, adding an extra layer of complexity. Pineapple brings a touch of acidity along with its natural sweetness, making it an excellent option for cutting through raw chocolate’s richness while contributing a tropical twist.
