Nib

Also known as Kernel or Meat.

The centre of the cacao bean. Roasted or unroasted cacao beans are mechanically cracked, allowing the separation of the cocoa bean shell from the cocoa nib. The nibs contain at least 50% fat (cocoa butter) and may be ground to make chocolate liquor. They may also be roasted and sold as crunchy confections (plain or chocolate covered) for use in desserts, for savoury uses in salads and sauces, as garnishes or simply for snacking.