Xocoatl - Definition and Overview

Xocoatl is the raw, unsweetened form of chocolate. A word from the Maya language, xocoatl derives from xoco, bitter, and atl, water, and is the source of the word "chocolate" itself. Xocoatl is taken from the cacao bean immediately before processing, and has an extremely bitter taste. In making chocolate, sugar is added and the bitter taste is tempered by sweetness.

When Spanish conquistadors first visited the Aztecs they were served cups of hot, unsweetened chocolate. When the Spanish found the word "Xocoatl" difficult to pronounce, they began calling the drink "chocolat" after the more easily pronounced Nahuatl word chocolatl.