Most chocolate lovers don’t like white chocolate. It is often in third place behind milk and dark chocolate and often not on the menu of coffee shops unless it is the holiday season. White chocolate has its advantages that many overlook. It has a smooth and creamy taste and pairs well with minty and nutty flavors. That said, there are three surprising facts about white chocolate that you need to know.
1) Real white chocolate isn’t white. Quality cocoa butter used for authentic white chocolate is ivory-colored. If your chocolate is white, then it could be bleached or confectionary. Pay attention to the ingredients. Make sure that it contains cocoa butter and is not a cheaper oil substitute. Interestingly enough, in The United States, white chocolate must contain a minimum of 20% cocoa fat.
2) It isn’t chocolate. White chocolate indeed originates from the cacao plant, yet the FDA states that ‘chocolate’ must contain chocolate liquor giving the bitter chocolate flavor and color we all know and love.
3) It absorbs odor. The smooth and creamy taste comes in part from the high-fat content, which allows it to absorb odor. When storing white chocolate, make sure it is in a cool location away from any foods that might emit odor. On the plus side, these same high-fat content also brings many antioxidants, allowing you to keep it for up to four or more years if stored properly.