Food of the Month: Chocolate

You knew this one was coming, right?  I mean it’s CHOCOLATE and therefore one of the most crucial topics I could ever cover for the food of the month.

We love it.  We can’t get enough of it.  We can’t live without it.  And we thank the heavens every day that it was created.  Or is that just me? J

But in addition to all that deliciousness, chocolate, is actually good for you.  And no, I’m not really talking about the Hershey’s kind, but rather high quality dark (70% or higher) and raw chocolate.

Here are some of the benefits of quality dark and raw chocolate:

-       Antioxidants!  Dark chocolate is loaded with these guys.  Antioxidants help rid your body of free radicals which can cause damage to your cells.  The more damage you do to your cells the more your body becomes vulnerable to diseases like cancer.  Eating antioxidant rich foods protect you from many types of cancer and can slow down the aging process.

-       Vitamins and minerals!  The good stuff is loaded with potassium, copper, magnesium and even iron.  These vitamins and minerals help prevent against anemia, heart disease and can even help prevent type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

-       Dark chocolate may even help balance blood sugar levels!  The antioxidants help the body use its insulin more efficiently to control blood sugar and thereby helping to lower blood sugar levels naturally.

Still want to know more?  Here is a video created by myself and my partner in cooking crime, Quinn for {Healthy} Cooking Camp!

VIDEO: {Healthy} Cooking Camp: Chocolate

And of course I’ve got you covered for a recipe.  Try this insanely delicious Chocolate Avocado pudding that is totally good for you and loaded with healthy fats.  It’s super rich so a little goes a long way.  Enjoy!

What are some of your favorite kinds of dark and raw chocolate?

Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Serves 4

2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted

2 ripe bananas, peeled

6 tablespoons raw cacao powder (or quality cocoa powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon cinnamon

2-3 tablespoons almond milk

Pinch of sea salt

Few drops of stevia, agave or maple syrup (optional)

Directions:

1. Using a food processor or Vitamix combine all of the ingredients except for the almond milk.
2. Puree until thoroughly combined and then add almond milk if needed 1 tablespoon at a time until the texture is a rich creamy consistency with a glossy finish.

Taste and feel free to adjust sweetness or enjoy as is!  Dish into small ramekins and chill until ready to serve.  Garnish with sliced bananas, shredded coconut or berries