Introduction

In a significant achievement for Indian craftsmanship, Kerala-based chocolate brand Paul And Mike has emerged victorious at the 2024 International Chocolate Awards. Their Milk Chocolate Coated Salted Capers not only won the prestigious Gold Award in the Milk chocolate enrobed whole fruit category, but they also bagged a Bronze Award in the Milk chocolate bars with inclusions or pieces category for their Pistachios & Idukki Cardamom Chocolate. This exciting journey demonstrates how traditional Indian flavors can resonate on international taste buds, marking a pivotal milestone for India’s chocolate industry.

The Award-Winning Chocolate: A Unique Convergence

The award-winning Milk Chocolate Coated Salted Capers encapsulates a harmonious blend of flavors from different regions in India. The chocolate is a remarkable representation of the eastern and western parts of the country. The capers story begins in Tuticorin, located on the East coast of India, known for its barren lands that produce the salt necessary for preserving capers. The luscious cacao used in this chocolate is sourced from the Western Ghats in Kerala, a region famed for its high-quality cocoa production.

Paul and Mike collaborated with Ishka Farms to perfect this product over three years. This unique partnership allowed them to leverage region-specific ingredients, thus yielding a chocolate that is not only delectable but also deeply rooted in local traditions.

Crafting the Chocolate: A Deep Dive Into the Process

Sourcing Ingredients

Creating this award-winning chocolate involved a meticulous sourcing process. Paul and Mike are committed to using only the finest ingredients:

• Lilliput Capers: These organic capers, characterized by their small size, offer a taste reminiscent of olives but with more lemony notes accompanied by flavors of mustard and pepper.
• Salt from Tuticorin: The salt solution used to preserve the capers contributes to the unique flavor profile of the chocolate. The brand works with Ishka Farms to ensure the right balance of tangy and salty notes is achieved.

The Chocolate-making Process

After sourcing these exquisite capers, they are immersed in the specially prepared salt solution. This is followed by their coating in rich, creamy milk chocolate produced in-house. Paul and Mike say, "As you bite into the crunchy caper and the chocolate melts on your tongue, you get a burst of flavors ranging from umami to salty to acidic to chocolatey, ending with a long finish and aftertaste." This exquisite fusion exemplifies how traditional Indian ingredients can be transformed into global confectionery.

More About Paul and Mike

A Commitment to Quality

Paul and Mike have made their mark by producing high-quality, single-origin chocolate directly from bean to bar. Sourcing cocoa beans from their own farms in Kerala and Coimbatore, as well as from progressive farmers throughout India, the brand prioritizes flavor profiles that are exceptional rather than merely focusing on yield.

Previous Accolades

This is not the brand's first encounter with success at international events. In the previous edition of the International Chocolate Awards, their Gin and Ginger dark chocolate was ranked 9th best in the world, making them the first Indian company to achieve such a top-10 placement. This continual recognition reflects their unwavering commitment to innovation and quality.

About The International Chocolate Awards

The International Chocolate Awards, an initiative by the International Institute of Chocolate & Cacao Tasting (IICCT), celebrate the best in chocolate globally. The competition analyzes various factors like flavor, aroma, texture, and overall presentation. With judges from around the globe comprising professionals and alumni from the IICCT, winning an award here signifies unparalleled excellence in chocolate making.

Conclusion

Paul and Mike's journey to winning the Gold Award at the International Chocolate Awards is a perfect illustration of how local ingredients can carve a niche in the international market. Their innovative approach to chocolate making, grounded in sustainability and quality, should inspire other brands in the industry. With awards like this, Indian chocolate is not just gaining international recognition but is also redefining what gourmet chocolate means in the global landscape. With each bite of their unique offerings, consumers now have the chance to taste a rich tapestry of Indian culture, tradition, and expertise.