Chocolate is the only ingredient that is its very own food group... Well not really - but it seems as if it should be!
Its rich, indulgent flavor is undeniably satisfying to the taste buds, often described as a blend of sweetness and bitterness that brings a perfect balance. Chocolate is comforting and mood-enhancing, attributed to releasing the feel good chemicals in our brain - serotonin, dopamine and phenylethylamine, all of which make it a go-to choice during moments of stress or as a mood booster. Additionally, the creamy texture of chocolate, whether in solid form or as a smooth, velvety sauce, adds a sensory element to the experience, making it a pleasure to savor. For many, chocolate is also tied to fond memories, special occasions, and the simple joy of treating oneself.
Many people eat chocolate at least several time a week, me included! Which begs the question....
Is Chocolate Good for You?
Let's Talk Chocolate
The answer is both yes and no.
Chocolate has been used for centuries to treat general malaise, fatigue, anemia, bronchitis, depression, memory loss, high blood pressure, poor eyesight and more. But eating the wrong kind and you'll get loads of sugar, calories, and junky ingredients.
How to Eat it Consciously and Guilt-Free?
Chocolate begins life as raw cacao beans. Loaded with antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and plant phenols. Cacao is a superfood. The more processed cacao becomes - think commercially produced candy bars - the fewer healthy components remain.
Get the most benefit for taming your chocolate fix.
- Don't be afraid of the dark. The darker the chocolate, the more beneficial cacao it contains.
- Know your percentages. The number on dark chocolate packaging refers to the percentage of cacao bean in chocolate. For maximum health benefit, look for dark chocolate that has 75% to 85% cacao.
- Go raw - or as unprocessed as possible.
Here are Five of my favorite brands:
Hu Kitchen: Dark Chocolate
Made Good: Organic Chocolate Chip Granola
Alter Eco: Dark Chocolate
Lily's: Extra Dark Chocolate
Dr. Bronner's: All One Variety
These chocolate alternatives contain less sugar, less trans-fats, and are less processed. Looking for more ways to enjoy your favorite food? You'll love this dark chocolate recipe. Why not invite some friends over and make a batch!
Raw Chocolate Truffle Recipe
Prep Time: 20 Mins
Makes 25 Truffles
1 cup raw cacao powder
1 cup cashews or macademia nuts
1/2 cup maple syrup
Water (to mix)
Roll-in ingredients: shredded cacao, chopped nuts, chocolate nibs, raw brown sugar or monkfruit alternative, cacao powder, ginger, or something else that you love.
Mix cashews in a food processor until a powder, adding enough water to create a thick past.
Add maple syrup to cashews and pulse to process.
Add cacao powder. Pulse to process.
Refrigerate for four hours or overnight for best results.
Form teaspoon-sized balls of dough. Coat balls in your chosen roll-in ingredients.
And enjoy this guilt-free, nutrient rich treat this Halloween and Fall season with friends, family and all those who you love!
Cheers - to the flavors of this season,
one healthy treat at a time!
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Salud y Alegria!
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