Ruby Islam and Manam Chocolate: India’s Craft Chocolate Revolution You Need to Know About

 



Chocolate lovers, rejoice! India’s craft chocolate scene is blossoming, and at the forefront of this delicious revolution is Ruby Islam, the head chef of Manam Chocolate. If you’re passionate about artisanal chocolate, sustainable sourcing, and unique flavor experiences, Ruby’s story and Manam Chocolate’s journey will inspire and delight you. In this article, we’ll explore how Ruby is transforming Indian cacao into world-class craft chocolate, putting India firmly on the global chocolate map.

Who is Ruby Islam?

Ruby Islam is not your average chocolatier. Growing up in Mumbai, she was fascinated by the blend of science and art behind chocolate-making. With a strong background in hotel management and a love for chemistry and baking, Ruby’s career path naturally led her to the world of premium chocolates.

She started her professional journey with Fabelle, India’s first luxury chocolate brand by ITC Hotels, where she refined her skills in chocolate and patisserie. In 2022, Ruby embraced a new challenge as the head chef at Manam Chocolate, a Hyderabad-based brand dedicated to showcasing the rich flavors of Indian cacao beans.

What Makes Manam Chocolate Special?

Manam Chocolate is not just another chocolate brand; it’s a celebration of India’s cacao heritage. Here’s what sets it apart:

  •          Farm-to-Bar Excellence: Manam works directly with over 120 farmers across India’s cacao-growing regions, including West Godavari, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. This close collaboration ensures traceability, quality, and fair practices.
  •          Innovative Fermentation: Ruby and her team have established their own fermentary to perfect the fermentation and drying process—critical steps that unlock the unique flavors in Indian cacao beans.
  •          Sustainability at Core: The brand sources cacao from deforestation-free farms and returns cacao pod shells to farmers for composting, promoting a circular, eco-friendly supply chain.
  •          Award-Winning Creations: Manam has bagged 17 awards at the 2023 Academy of Chocolate Awards in the UK and earned a spot on TIME magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places – 2024” list.

Ruby Islam’s Chocolate Philosophy

Ruby believes that chocolate is a story of the bean, the soil, and the people behind it. Her creations blend traditional European chocolate-making techniques with Indian terroir, resulting in chocolates that are rich, complex, and full of character.

Some of her signature flavors include the 69% Malabar Palette with passion fruit notes and the Kerala dark chocolate with spiced and tart fruit undertones. Each product is crafted with precision, balancing flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Why Should You Care About Indian Craft Chocolate?

  •          Unique Flavors: Indian cacao beans offer flavor profiles unlike any other, thanks to the country’s diverse climate and soil.
  •          Sustainable Choice: Supporting brands like Manam means encouraging environmentally responsible farming and production.
  •          Empowering Farmers: Direct sourcing helps improve farmers’ livelihoods and promotes quality over quantity.
  •          Global Recognition: Indian craft chocolate is gaining international acclaim, making it an exciting category for chocolate enthusiasts.

Ruby Islam and Manam Chocolate are pioneering a new chapter in India’s culinary story—one where craft chocolate is not just a luxury but a celebration of Indian agriculture, innovation, and artistry. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or just curious to try something new, Manam Chocolate offers a rich, sustainable, and award-winning experience you won’t forget.

So next time you crave chocolate, think beyond the usual and explore the vibrant world of Indian craft chocolate led by Ruby Islam. Your taste buds will thank you!

 

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