Chocolate for Health!

The health benefits of dark chocolate have been big news lately. Women in particular respond to chemicals in chocolate that boost our serotonin and endorphin levels. Chocolate contains high levels of magnesium for bone health and that reduce menstrual cramps. Its flavenoids can improve our heart health.

Daily chocolate is a highly pleasurable way to care for your body. But remember--the light, milky, sugary stuff doesn’t count. The darker the chocolate, the more potent the benefits. We recommend 70% or darker organic chocolate.

Try working more chocolate (or cacao) into your diet by cooking with it. Unsweetened chocolate has high health benefits and can add a new, exotic touch to basic dishes. Try it and see!

Chocolate Pinto Beans

1. Combine in a bowl 1 cup canned, organic tomatoes, 1 chopped clove of garlic, 1/2 diced green pepper, 1 TB raisins, 1 cup veggie broth, 1 TB tahini sauce, 2 TB unsweetened organic cocoa powder, 1/4 TB chili powder, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and a dash of salt and pepper.
2. Hand blend or put through a blender until smooth.
3. Combine sauce and 2 cups of canned organic pinto (or black or kidney) beans.
4. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Enjoy as part of your meal.

Chocolate Veggie Pasta

1. Prepare 1 box of whole wheat pasta or rice penne pasta.
2. Slice 2 small zucchinis into thin sticks and sauté with 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 TB extra virgin olive oil.
3. Stir pasta and vegetables together in a serving bowl.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle with 3 tsp crushed cacao nibs - tiny pieces of cacao beans. They are not sweet, but are crunchy and nutty and smell heavenly. You can find them at the health food store.
6. Eat and enjoy!