Cocoa powder is a powder made from roasted cacao beans, which have been ground and separated from their fat (cocoa butter). It's a key ingredient in chocolate production and has various uses in:
1. _Baking_: Cakes, cookies, brownies, and other sweet treats.
2. _Beverages_: Hot chocolate, smoothies, and milkshakes.
3. _Confectionery_: Chocolate production, coatings, and fillings.
4. _Cosmetics_: Skincare products, due to its antioxidant and moisturizing properties.
5. _Pharmaceuticals_: Some medications, as a filler or coating.
Types of cocoa powder:
1. _Natural cocoa powder_: Light brown, acidic, and fruity.
2. _Dutch-processed cocoa powder_: Darker, milder, and more alkaline.
3. _Raw cocoa powder_: Minimally processed, retaining more antioxidants.
Benefits of cocoa powder:
1. _Rich in antioxidants_
2. _May improve heart health_
3. _Can help lower blood pressure_
4. _Supports bone health_
5. _Mood booster_ (contains phenylethylamine)
When storing cocoa powder, keep it in an airtight container, away from light and moisture, to preserve its flavor and nutritional properties.
