Eating dark chocolate, made from cocoa beans, has many health benefits.
Said to be one of the best sources of antioxidants, a 100 gram herb 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 we buy and eat is full of unhealthy sugar.
But like any other dessert, look for low-sugar chocolate and remember to consume it in moderation!
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola
What you need:
- 2 cups of oatmeal
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup dried candied cranberries
- 2 spoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons butter flavored spread
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Non-stick cooking spray
In a saucepan over low heat, mix together the brown sugar, honey, peanut butter, shortening, and vanilla extract.
Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon and salt, then pour the peanut butter mixture into the bowl.
Add the dark chocolate, almonds and blueberries. Spoon mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray.
Bake in a preheated 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 cups sweetened condensed milk or coconut milk
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermints
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract
- 1 pinch of salt
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the dark chocolate, condensed milk or coconut milk, butter, peppermint extract, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
Microwave on medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes or until chips are melted. Remove from heat and stir in mint candy. Pour the mixture into an 8×8 silicone baking dish, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.
Light 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 spoons of water
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 spoon of sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon ground dried chipotle pepper
- 1 small pinch of salt
In a small heatproof bowl, stir together the dark chocolate, 2 tablespoons water, butter, pepper, and salt.
Fill a pot with water and bring to a boil over low heat. Place bowl over pan of simmering water until butter melts, stir until mixture is smooth.
Set aside to cool. In a separate heatproof bowl, mix the egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of water and the sugar. Place over pan of boiling water and stir until mixture is hot, about 3 minutes.
Pour the egg mixture into the chocolate mixture and mix until smooth. Allow to cool to room temperature. Gently fold the whipped 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 sweets even more!
To learn more about using herbs and spices in food, get your hands on it Healthy plant foods.
