by The island paradise of Bohol is not just famous for its beautiful Chocolate Hills. It also houses a hidden gem for chocolate enthusiasts: the Lasang Farm in Maribojoc. My recent visit was an eye-opening (and taste-bud-tingling) experience, where I discovered the world of cacao farming and even got my hands dirty (or rather, chocolatey) in making traditional table.
Lasang Farm
Lasang Farm isn’t just a farm; it’s a haven for those who want to learn about chocolate from seed to sip. My visit began with a quick trek. From where our van parked, we did a good 15-minute walk to the visitors’ center. We didn’t mind it, however, because the weather was pretty cool as the ground was still wet from a recent rain shower.
We had a glass of fresh passion fruit juice as soon as we got to the visitors’ center. It was so refreshing and delicious that I ended up getting a second cup.
Then, it was time to learn about cacao and tablea-making. The farm guide explained the long process of growing cacao beans, from planting to harvesting. Additionally, we learned about the different cacao varieties, the challenges of growing them, as well as the importance of sustainable farming practices.
We got to try ripe cacao seeds. To be honest, I quite liked them. They taste sweet and juicy, very much like the mangosteen which is a favorite.
Making Tablea the Traditional Way
The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the tablea-making workshop. Under the watchful eye of a seasoned artisan, we turned sun-dried cacao beans into the rich, dark tablea tablets that we Filipinos love.
The process was fascinating – after the seeds are sun-dried, they are roasted over an open fire. Then, they are broken into smaller pieces using a traditional mortar and pestle. What is left is then ground into a fine paste using a traditional conch grinder. Next, the paste is placed in banana leaves to dry and for storage.
A Chocolate-y Experience
The satisfaction of creating something from scratch, especially something as delicious as tablea, was rewarding. And that is why trying a delicious cup of sikwate made from the tablea that we just created was truly exciting.
Whether you’re a die-hard chocolate fan or simply curious about local agriculture, Lasang Farm is a must-visit destination in Bohol. It’s a place where you can learn, create, and savor the rich tradition of Filipino chocolate making. So, if you find yourself in Maribojoc, don’t miss the chance to embark on your own chocolatey adventure at Lasang Farm.
LEY
