The Big Island Chocolate Festival returned post-COVID on May 13-14 with a “reimagined” edition at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.
The Big Island Chocolate Festival returned post-COVID on May 13-14 with a “reimagined” edition at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.
Chef Gonzo Jimenez, who appears on the Netflix TV series, Bake Squad, prepared the signature dessert for the 2022 Big Island Chocolate Festival Gala. The specialty dessert, titled Texturas de Maiz, or “Textures of Corn,” is a tribute to South American cuisine.
“It’s a dessert offering the many textures emblematic of the iconic ingredients found in Latin gastronomy — corn and cacao,” says the Argentinian-born Jimenez.
Texturas de Maiz joined assorted bonbons and French macarons on the decadent dessert platter served during the BICF’s four-course, sit-down dinner. The cocoa-inspired menu also included a seared ahi appetizer with white chocolate breadfruit mousse, a greens salad with chocolate biscotti crouton and warm rolls, and grilled chicken breast with Hamakua mushroom dashi and mango relish.
In addition to a towering chocolate fountain with pastries and fruit, guests enjoyed unlimited wine and beer, a chocolate spritzer by Ola Brew, iced tea and coffee. Gala festivities included live music, dancing, a showpiece chocolate sculpture, fun photo booth, quickie chocolate portraits and a silent auction.
The two-day festival also included farm tours and educational presentations.
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