Philippine Tablea - Everything You Need To Know About Filipino Hot Chocolate
Discover the Richness of Philippine Tablea: Your Ultimate Guide to Filipino Hot Chocolate
Introduction to Tablea
Forget what you know about hot chocolate; tablea, also known as tableya, is the Filipino secret to creating one of the most delightful chocolate drinks globally - tsokolate. But what exactly is tablea, and how does it differ from the hot chocolate we're accustomed to?
Tablea or Tableya: Unveiling the Name
Whether you call it tablea or tableya, both terms are correct and stem from the Spanish word for "tablet." In the 1700s, this referred to a compressed disc of ingredients, similar in concept to a tablet of aspirin, rather than the modern digital device. Tablea is essentially a chocolate tablet, typically the size of a stack of four or five US half-dollar coins, offering a rich, concentrated chocolate flavor.
The Making of Tablea
In the Philippines, crafting tablea begins with grinding cacao nibs into a paste, then shaping this paste into balls or discs. According to the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry, tablea is defined as roasted, ground, and molded nibs of fermented pure (100%) cacao beans, without any added ingredients or additives.
You might notice tablea has a gritty texture and sometimes sports white spots, known as bloom, caused by the crystallization of cocoa butter. It’s important to note that bloom does not affect the chocolate's flavor.
Tablea vs. Powdered Mixes
When making a hot chocolate beverage, tablea offers a richer experience with more natural fats and nutrients and fewer sugars and artificial ingredients compared to powdered mixes like Swiss Miss. For those seeking an authentic hot chocolate experience without unnecessary additives, tablea is the perfect choice.
Culinary Uses of Tablea
Tablea's versatility extends beyond hot chocolate; it's used in various recipes from baking to special desserts. Whether creating a frothy tsokolate de batirol or incorporating it into cookies and tortes, tablea enriches dishes with its deep chocolate flavor. It's even mixed with glutinous rice to make champorado, allowing for a chocolatey start to the day.
Cultural Highlight: José Rizal's Influence
José Rizal, the Philippine national hero and author of Noli Me Tangere, subtly enriched the cultural significance of chocolate in his novel. He portrayed Padre Salvi serving thick (espeso) or watered-down (aguado) chocolate to guests based on their importance, signaled by "chocolate, eh?" or "chocolate, ah?" respectively. This distinction, rooted in Rizal's narrative, has inspired the terminology "Chocolate Eh" and "Chocolate Ah" in some establishments, reflecting the beverage's nuanced role in Filipino culture.
A Cultural Touch: The Influence of José Rizal
The esteemed Philippine national hero, José Rizal, may have added a layer of cultural significance to tsokolate through his novel, Noli Me Tangere. Rizal's depiction of the beverage's use in social settings underscores its cultural importance and the nuanced communication within Filipino society.
Where to Find Tablea
While the authentic tablea experience might prompt a visit to the Philippines, Oodaalolly offers an accessible online alternative for those unable to travel. With various makers and varieties available, including easily found brands like Alfonso's, ensuring quality by reading packaging details is crucial.
Bonus Tip: Mixing Your Tablea
Traditionally mixed with a batirol or batidor, these wooden tools might be challenging to find outside the Philippines. An IKEA Produkt milk frother or a similar device from Amazon can serve as a modern alternative, making it easier to enjoy this rich, chocolatey treat at home.
