In Italy, as in every country of the world, there are different traditions regarding the food we eat and share on the last day of the year.
Many of these, such as lentils, pomegranate and mandarin oranges, are thought to bring good luck.
The cacao plant has ancient origins and the earliest chocolate production known to man dates back to the Maya civilization, when it was consumed as a drink during the most important ceremonies, aromatized with chilli pepper and other spices.
In the course of its long history, a number of famous people, such as Marie Antoinette of France, Voltaire and Mozart have been extremely fond of chocolate.
Today, alongside enthusiasts and foodies, starred chefs also consider chocolate to be an essential ingredient and a source of inspiration for creating some amazingly delicious desserts.
However, chocolate is also a simple pleasure for enjoying on its own, especially during the Christmas season, when it’s nice to hand round some chocolates to our guests or make welcome gifts to our friends.