Discover the authentic Samoan cocoa drink, Koko, made from rich cocoa beans. This traditional recipe offers a sweet, comforting beverage that’s perfect for enjoying hot. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this delicious Samoan treat right in your own kitchen. Ideal for cocoa lovers and anyone seeking a unique, flavorful drink.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cocoa beans (or ½ cup cocoa powder if beans are not available)

- 4 cups water

- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

- A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Prepare the Cocoa Beans:

  - If using cocoa beans, roast them in a dry pan over medium heat until the skins start to crack. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

  - Let the beans cool slightly, then remove the outer shells and grind the beans into a fine powder using a spice grinder or food processor. If using cocoa powder, skip this step.

Make the Cocoa Base:

  - In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. 

  - Add the cocoa powder (or the ground cocoa beans) to the boiling water, stirring continuously to ensure it dissolves completely.

Sweeten and Flavor:

  - Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  - Add sugar to taste, and stir until fully dissolved. If desired, add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Serve:

  - Pour the hot Koko into cups and enjoy warm. 

Optional:

  - For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of milk or cream.

Enjoy your homemade Koko, a delightful taste of Samoa’s cocoa tradition!

Nutritional Values

Cocoa Beans (1 cup)

  - Calories: 450 kcal

  - Protein: 12g

  - Fat: 20g

  - Carbohydrates: 50g

  - Fiber: 10g

Benefits: Cocoa beans are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which may improve heart health. They also provide magnesium, iron, and other minerals.

Cocoa Powder (½ cup)

   - Calories: 100 kcal

   - Protein: 4g

   - Fat: 3g

   - Carbohydrates: 20g

   - Fiber: 10g

Benefits: Cocoa powder is high in antioxidants and provides minerals like iron and magnesium. It supports heart health and can have a mood-lifting effect.

Water (4 cups)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Essential for hydration, digestion, and overall bodily functions.

Sugar (1 cup)

  - Calories: 774 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 200g

Benefits: Adds sweetness but lacks significant nutritional benefits beyond calories. Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive calorie intake.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon, optional)

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and has some antioxidant properties. It may also help to enhance the overall taste of the recipe.

A Pinch of Salt

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Enhances flavor and helps in electrolyte balance. 

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.