Eating dark chocolate, made from cocoa seed, has plenty of health benefits.It is said to be one of the best sources of antioxidants, a 100 gram bar of the dark variety contains a good amount of fiber, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and many other nutrients.It is also believed to help improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure.Most of the commercial chocolate bars we buy and eat are full of unhealthy sugar.But like any other sweet treat, look for chocolate that is low in sugar and remember to consume it in moderation!
Dark Chocolate and Peanut Butter Granola
What you need:
2 cup oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons butter-flavored spread
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Non-stick cooking spray
In a saucepan over low heat, mix together brown sugar, honey, peanut butter, spread and vanilla extract.Stir until ingredients are mixed well. Remove from heat.In a large bowl, combine oats, cinnamon and salt then pour peanut butter mixture into the bowl.Add dark chocolate, almonds and cranberries. Spoon mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray.Cook in a pre-heated oven (175 degrees Celsius) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until browned.
Quick Choco-Mint Fudge
What you need:
3 cups semi-sweet dark chocolate chips
1 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk or coconut milk
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 teaspoons pure mint extract
1 pinch salt
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together dark chocolate, condensed milk or coconut milk, butter, mint extract and salt. Stir until ingredients are well-combined.Melt in the microwave over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes or until chips are melted. Remove from heat and mix in peppermint candies. Pour mixture in an 8×8 silicone baking dish, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until set.
Easy Dark Chocolate Mousse
What you need:
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream, chilled
1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate
4 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon ground dried chipotle pepper
1 tiny pinch salt
In a small heat-proof bowl, mix together dark chocolate, 2 tablespoons water, butter, chipotle pepper and salt.Fill a saucepan with water and simmer over low heat. Set bowl over pan of simmering water until butter melts, stir until mixture is smooth.Set aside to cool. In a separate heat-proof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, 2 tablespoons water and sugar. Set over the pan of simmering water and stir until mixture is hot, about 3 minutes.Pour egg mixture into the chocolate mixture and stir until smooth. Allow to cool to room temperature. Gently fold in whipping cream into the mixture. Divide mixture into ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Try these drool-worthy dark chocolate recipes and you’ll love sweet treats even more!To learn more about using herbs and spices in food, get your hands on Healthy Herbal Foods.
