A lot of folks really loved the truffle we made for a while, in which we used Mayordomo chocolate, an actual minimally-processed chocolate from Oaxaca, the cradle of traditional chocolate. It ultimately turned out that the chocolate was not being imported in exact compliance with customs regulations (which I assume meant it was, like, FedEx’ed packed in coffee grounds or delivered via remote airstrips in the Anza-Borrego desert). So, our supply lines were cut and the Oaxacan Chocolate Truffle was relegated to history…or so it seemed.
The reason we’ve been fascinated by Oaxacan chocolate is that is it minimally processed and not conched, and so it would seem to be the truest way to experience the essence — and, eventually, the people and terrior — of chocolate.
Fortunately, it turns out that other people have not only shared this interest in “close-to-the-bean” chocolate, they’re actually doing something about it. We found out about Taza through our good friend Peter Giuliano, who as a coffee superhero is also pretty in tune with the world of chocolate (the two beans have a lot in common, I gather).
Taza not only hand-mills their chocolate in the Oaxacan style — using tools imported from Oaxaca — they also use only organic and/or biodynamic ingredients, and buy from small farmers’ co-operatives they know. This is the chocolate that basically perfectly embodies the way we want to eat, and the food we want to serve…we are very stoked to find these people! They were even nice enough to custom-make a batch to our specifications (specifically, with no sugar) so that we would have more flexibility with cooking.
We expect to have the truffles back in effect by Thursday, I will update if there is a delay.
I love Oaxaca chocolate. My family is from there. When I was little my grandfather took me to the Mayordomo shops where you tell them what you want in your chocolate and they grind it right then and there for you to take home and use as you like. When I visit Oaxaca I always go back and get some chocolate, with sugar and no sugar. The best scent comes out of that place!! Too bad I never got to taste the truffles you guys were making. But I do have some Mayordomo in my cupboards to munch on~ i guess i will make do with that.