For Valentine’s Day, we interviewed Chef Selassie Atadika, the founder, CEO and Head Chocolatier at Midunu Chocolates, which sells Africa-inspired chocolates using Ghanian cocoa. The company names its truffles after “different African women who have inspired the truffles and are culinary custodians throughout the continent.”
Midunu Chocolates carries a chocolate tasting kit that’s perfect for adding to any romantic relationship or using among friends; there’s even the option to add a private virtual chocolate tasting with Chef Atadika. We found out from Chef Atadika how she got involved with chocolate, why chocolate is such a sensual food and the best way to eat chocolate to get the most out of it. Enjoy our interview, and happy eating!
How did you get involved in cooking, and what drew you to creating chocolates specifically?
I’ve always loved cooking from a young age. It has always been a way to express love for those around me. I took every opportunity to learn about food and cooked whenever I got the chance. While working for the UN, I traveled to over 40 African countries, tasted some delicious dishes, and met unique producers. I started to see how food tied people together to create economies and solve social issues. So I took courses at the Culinary Institute of America and began Midunu in Ghana. When I started my company, I wanted to add value to local ingredients, especially those overlooked. Cocoa was an obvious choice. As I began offering my multi-course meals, I served chocolate truffles as the final course. We started getting requests for these truffles outside of the dinners, and Midunu Chocolates was born.
Why did you start Midunu Chocolates? What sets Midunu Chocolates apart from other chocolates?
I wanted to change the narrative around African cuisines and their ingredients to the culinary world. Transformation can start when you combine what you know with what you don’t know. Chocolate is very approachable, and most people love it. So, I saw it as a great foundation to introduce the spices and flavors of the African continent. I’m most proud of being part of a movement that changes the narrative and role cocoa-producing countries play in the work economy. I am honored to be among the first artisanal Ghanaian chocolate companies to bring made-in-Ghana chocolate directly to consumers. By being part of our community, consumers are changing the tide. No longer is cocoa just a commodity to be extracted from our shores – it is an opportunity to create value and equitable jobs for everyone along the supply chain and showcase Africa’s beauty and rich flavors.
What makes chocolate such a sensual food? Why is it so often associated with romance?
I’m not a scientist, but cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate, when eaten, causes the brain to release endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which all contribute to brain chemistry for happiness. The gifting process, gorgeous products, and beautiful packaging involved with chocolate also add to the romance of it all.
How can couples use the chocolate tasting kit to enhance intimacy?
The tasting kit is a beautiful activity for an intimate night at home. The kit allows you to slow down and pause while offering a comfortable way to start to engage your senses.
What about friends or non-romantic partners, how can they use the chocolate tasting kit?
The tasting kit is also a lot of fun for Galentine’s or other gatherings of foodies. A short video takes you on a visit to a cocoa farm in Ghana, while the tasting experience is a fun and slightly competitive way to test out how accurate your palate is!
What is the best way to eat chocolate in order to get the most out of it?
The best way to eat chocolate is to savor it. Take your time to engage all your senses. First, let your eyes take in the beauty of the chocolate, see the shine, the colors of the truffles and chocolate. Next, smell the chocolate take in the various notes. Taste and let the chocolate flavors open up on your mouth as you allow it to melt between your tongue and the roof of your mouth, and take note of what you feel. Embrace the textures. Given the connection of the mouth and nose, you will also smell and get new flavor notes at this stage.
Do you have any other food and romance tips for everyday life?
My best tip is to slow down and be intentional about how we spend time eating, whether it’s alone or with others. First, take time to bring out a favorite plate, glass or set the table if you have time. Then, focus on the flavors, company, and conversation.