United StatesNational Chocolate with Almonds Day
The story of chocolate's journey began around 4,000 years ago in Mexico and Central America, where cocoa plants were first cultivated. Mayan and Aztec civilizations consumed chocolate as a bitter beverage, considering it a mood enhancer and aphrodisiac, even deeming it the “food of the gods.” Unfortunately, the commoners had limited access to this heavenly concoction. Historical references to almonds also reveal their significance in ancient cultures, being valued in Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Spanish societies, even symbolizing divine approval in the Bible. The origin of National Chocolate With Almonds Day is unknown, but the love for this delightful pairing is undeniable. As chocolate's popularity grew, it became more accessible to a broader audience. In 1830, British chocolate maker J.S. Fry and Sons pioneered the creation of solid chocolate bars, making it available to more than just the upper class. Then, in 1920, Hershey's introduced the Mounds bar, featuring coconut and dark chocolate, a harbinger of the chocolate and almond treats to come. By 1925, the U.S. Cocoa Exchange was established in New York City, emphasizing the booming cocoa business. Fast forward to the 1950s, and these delightful chocolate-covered almond treats gained immense popularity in the United States. The rise of television and the emergence of drive-in movie theaters created a need for convenient and accessible snacks, and these treats perfectly fit the bill. Their convenience, affordability, and delicious taste made them a staple in households, lunchboxes, and at parties.
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