If you are passionate about everything sweet and good, don’t miss this complete guide dedicated to Belgian chocolate. Discover its history, features, advantages and much more.

If there is something that makes Belgium stand out worldwide It is their exquisite chocolate. Belgian chocolate, recognized and revered by lovers of this sweet around the world, is an incomparable delicacy that has set the quality standard in the chocolate industry.

In this article, we will explain the history, origin, characteristics and peculiarities of this chocolate, in addition to providing a list of the best brands and advice on where to buy it in Spain and online.

What is the Belgian chocolate?

Belgian chocolate is much more than just a food product; It is a symbol of excellence in the world of confectionery.

Considered by many to be the gold standard of chocolate, this sweet is not only famous for its indescribable flavor and texture, but also by the rigorous traditional standards and techniques that regulate its production.

History and Origin

Belgium’s relationship with chocolate dates back to the 17th century, when the country was under Spanish rule. With the arrival of cocoa from the american colonies Belgium quickly became a key point in the trade and production of this coveted product.

In the 19th century, the invention of the chocolate “bar” and the development of more modern production techniques solidified Belgium’s position on the chocolate map.

However, it was in the 20th century that Belgium really took center stage with the creation of praline by Jean Neuhaus in 1912, revolutionizing the chocolate industry and confirming Belgium as the epicenter of luxury and innovation in the world of chocolate.

Characteristics and Peculiarities of Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate is famous for its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor. This is largely due to the production process, which includes a high percentage of cocoa and the use of 100% pure cocoa butter, which results in a purer chocolate with a more intense flavor.

Added to this is the traditional “conchado” method, a prolonged mixing and grinding process that contributes to the distinctive softness of Belgian chocolate.

Besides, Belgian chocolate production is regulated by a law from 1884 which requires that a minimum of 35% pure cocoa be used, thus guaranteeing the high quality of these products.

Additionally, Belgium has a unique tradition of making many of its chocolates by hand, especially pralines, guaranteeing quality and care that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Types of Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate comes in a wide variety of shapes and flavors. There are the classics: dark, milk and white chocolate, which vary in terms of cocoa content and sweetness. But beyond that, Belgium is famous for its innovation when it comes to fillings and flavor mixes.

Belgian chocolates can come filled with ganache, praline, mocha cream, nougat, fruits, nuts, and many other delicacies. Additionally, Belgium is known for its chocolate truffles, which are ganache balls covered in cocoa powder or chocolate, and the famous pralines, which are chocolates filled with a mixture of nuts and caramel.

Differences with Normal Chocolate

What differentiates Belgian chocolate from other chocolates is the quality and quantity of the ingredients, as well as the care and precision in its manufacturing process. Belgian chocolate is produced with a high percentage of cocoa and uses 100% pure cocoa butterunlike other chocolates that can use vegetable fats.

Additionally, Belgian chocolate is distinguished by its long conching process, which allows flavors to develop more fully and results in a smoother texture.

The skill and attention to detail in chocolate production, especially artisanal methods, make Belgian chocolate exceptionally delicious and of high quality.

Best Belgian Chocolate Brands

Neuhaus

Neuhaus, founded in 1857, It is one of the oldest and most respected chocolate shops in Belgium. This company is the creator of praline, a feat that put it on the map as one of the most innovative chocolate companies in the world.

Neuhaus chocolates are recognized worldwide for their superior quality, its exquisite flavor and his careful attention to detail. Their chocolate boxes, which combine a variety of pralines, truffles and filled chocolates, are a much-appreciated gift for any occasion.

Godiva

Godiva andIt’s another renowned Belgian brand. Founded in 1926, Godiva is famous for its luxurious chocolates and truffles. Their collection includes a variety of filled chocolates, truffles, chocolate bars and other sweets, all presented in elegant packaging.

The brand has become synonymous with luxury and sophistication which makes their chocolates the perfect gift for the most demanding chocolate lovers.

Leonidas

Leonidas, founded in 1913, is a brand of Belgian chocolates of high quality and affordable prices. Although their prices are lower than other luxury brands, Leonidas doesn’t skimp on quality.

The company offers a wide range of chocolates, including pralines, truffles and filled chocolates, all made with the best ingredients and following Belgian chocolate traditions.

What is considered the best Belgian Chocolate?

Determining which is the “best” Belgian chocolate is largely a matter of personal preference. However, The Neuhaus brand is often highlighted by critics and chocolate fans for its quality, flavor and tradition.

Neuhaus chocolates are made following traditional methods and using the best ingredients, resulting in a chocolate that is both a delight for the palate and the eyes.

Where to Buy Belgian Chocolate in Spain?

In Spain, you can find Belgian chocolate in many supermarkets, gift shops, and specialty chocolate shops. Big brands like Godiva and Leonidas have physical stores in several Spanish cities.

You can also find a wide variety of Belgian chocolates in online stores such as Amazon, Gourmet’s International, and the official online store of each brand. When purchasing Belgian chocolate, be sure to check that you are purchasing an authentic product, since the popularity of Belgian chocolate has led to the emergence of imitations.

Curiosities About Belgian Chocolate

Belgium is a fascinating country when it comes to chocolate. One of the most interesting facts is that Belgium has more chocolate shops per capita than any other country in the world, with more than 2,000 chocolate shops for a population of around 11 million people. This is a clear indication of how much Belgians value their chocolate.

In addition, Brussels airport is the place where the most chocolate is sold in the world, with more than 800 tons of chocolate sold annually. And it is not surprising, since travelers They can’t resist bringing home a little piece of Belgium’s chocolate tradition. With these figures, it is difficult not to associate Belgium with the sweet temptation of chocolate!

Do you want Belgian chocolate?

Belgian chocolate is more than a sweet, it is an art that It has been perfected over centuries.

Whether in the form of praline, milk chocolate or dark chocolate, the excellence of Belgian chocolate It is guaranteed by tradition, the law and the passion of its chocolatiers.

Without a doubt, it is a flavor experience that every chocolate lover must try.