When most people think of cocoa, they think of chocolate. But before cocoa beans are roasted and transformed into chocolate, they are surrounded by a delicious white tropical fruit that is often overlooked.

Fresh cocoa fruit has a refreshing flavour that is difficult to describe. It combines sweet, tangy and citrus notes, making it a perfect ingredient for fresh smoothies. Combined with dragon fruit and fresh coconut water, it creates a nutritious tropical drink that's both refreshing and naturally hydrating.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup fresh raw cocoa fruit flesh and seeds
• 1 ripe dragon fruit
• Water from one fresh coconut
• Honey, to taste

Method

Place the cocoa fruit, cocoa seeds, dragon fruit, coconut water and honey into a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness with additional honey if required.

Serve immediately while chilled.

What Does Fresh Cocoa Taste Like?

The white flesh surrounding the cocoa seeds is sweet with a pleasant tropical acidity. The fresh cocoa seeds themselves contain natural polyphenols, giving them a slight bitterness that is balanced beautifully by the sweetness of honey and dragon fruit.

Unlike processed chocolate, this recipe showcases cocoa in its natural form, allowing you to experience the fruit exactly as nature intended.

Why Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit has a mild flavour and creamy texture that blends exceptionally well with fresh cocoa. It adds natural colour, fibre and antioxidants without overpowering the delicate tropical flavours of the cocoa fruit.

Fresh Coconut Water

Using the water from a freshly opened coconut adds natural electrolytes and a subtle sweetness while keeping the smoothie light and refreshing. It also eliminates the need for artificial juices or added sugars.

A True Tropical Experience

This smoothie brings together three incredible tropical fruits that grow beautifully in Far North Queensland. It is simple to make, naturally refreshing and offers a unique opportunity to enjoy cocoa before it becomes chocolate.

If you've only ever experienced cocoa as chocolate, fresh cocoa fruit may surprise you. Its bright, zesty flavour is one of tropical Australia's hidden gems and is well worth trying during the cocoa season.

At Rare Dragon Fruit, we're passionate about introducing people to unusual tropical fruits and showing just how versatile they can be in the kitchen. This smoothie is one of our favourite ways to enjoy the fresh cocoa harvest.