In chocolate production, what is a nib?

In chocolate production, a nib refers to the small pieces of crushed cocoa beans that have been fermented, dried, roasted, and cracked. This process separates the outer shell of the cocoa bean from the inner part, which is the nib itself. Nibs are pure chocolate in their unprocessed form and contain the cocoa solids and cocoa butter, making them rich in flavor and nutrients.

Understanding the nature of nibs is essential for anyone interested in chocolate making, as they serve as the fundamental ingredient for producing chocolate liquor, cocoa powder, and a variety of chocolate products. Nibs can be used in baking, as a topping for desserts, or to enhance the flavor profile of chocolate confections, highlighting their versatility and importance in the chocolate-making process.