This is the REAL story of chocolate.

The story the big corporations don’t want you to know.

Welcome to We Need to Talk About Chocolate, the podcast where we unwrap the rich, sticky, and sometimes bittersweet history of the world’s most beloved treat.

From sacred rituals performed by the Mayans and Aztecs to the industrial empires that flood supermarket shelves today, chocolate has never been just a confection. It’s been a symbol of power, a sacred offering, a global obsession, and a billion-dollar industry with a dark side.

Hosted by writer and lifelong chocoholic Ed Easton, and world-renowned chocolatier Andrew Nason of Melt Chocolates, this series digs deep beneath the foil to uncover the untold truths behind the cacao bean.

You’ll meet ancient chocolatiers, explore the ruins of a “chocolate Pompeii,” and follow the journey of chocolate through colonisation, exploitation, innovation, and indulgence.

Because trust us, we really do need to talk about chocolate.

On this episode, Andrew and Ed meet arguably History's most chocolate obsessed people - the Aztecs. From using it as currency, to drinking 20 cups a day, discover the world of these coco-loco central Americans.

Chilcacahuatl (Cacao with Chili Peppers)

• Melt 70% dark chocolate.
• Stir in a pinch of ground chili pepper.
• Mix with hot water or milk.
• Tip: Start with little chili, add more to taste.

Xochinacatl (Cacao with Spices)

• Melt dark chocolate.
• Stir in ground black pepper, nutmeg, and allspice (tiny pinches).
• Mix with hot water or milk.
• Tip: Warm spices slightly first for richer flavor.

Tlilxochitl (Cacao with Vanilla)

• Melt dark chocolate.
• Stir in a splash of real vanilla extract.
• Mix with hot water or milk.
• Tip: Use pure vanilla, not imitation.

With special thanks to Alex Rooz, Oli Ortega as well as Kitty and Charlotte Nason!

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