Peruvian tejas, an iconic confection from Ica, have a fascinating history that blends with the innovation of Helena Chocolatier. Explore their origin and evolution.

At the heart of Peru's Ica region is a traditional treat that not only delights the palate but also tells a story of tradition and innovation: Peruvian tejas. At Helena Chocolatier, we are proud to keep this legacy alive, especially through our most famous creation, the chocoteja.

A Journey to the Origin of Tejas

It's said that tejas were born in the colonial era when the creativity of the people of Ica came together to create a unique delicacy. The original recipe was simple yet sublime: a combination of candied fruits, such as figs or lemons, wrapped in a creamy manjar blanco (dulce de leche). The final layer was a thin coating of white fondant, which gave it its characteristic look. Legend has it that workers from the highlands, seeing this sweet, compared it to the snow-covered roofs of their homes, and that's how the name "teja" (roof tile) was born.

This traditional sweet became a symbol of Ica's pastry-making, passed down from generation to generation. It was the perfect dessert to share with family and a testament to Peru's rich culinary heritage.

The Innovation That Became a Tradition: The Chocoteja

In the 1970s, at our factory in Ica, our founder Helena Soler de Panizo decided to give the classic recipe a modern twist. With a bold vision, she replaced the white fondant coating with a layer of chocolate. The result was a resounding success. The deep, bittersweet flavor of the chocolate combined perfectly with the sweetness of the manjar blanco and fruit, creating a completely new experience. The chocoteja was born.

Today, Helena Chocolatier's chocoteja is a symbol of our brand and an undisputed favorite. Each piece is a reminder that tradition can evolve to delight new generations. We invite you to try our tejas and chocotejas and become a part of this story of flavor and innovation that endures over time.

                           Content originally produced by Sabio 360  for Helena Chocolatier