Originally posted by Dr. Davis on 2017-02-07
on the Wheat Belly Blog, sourced from and currently found at: Infinite Health Blog.
PCM forum Index of WB Blog articles. Blog Recipes Index.

Chocolate For Adults Only

Chocolate for Adults Only!

I call this Chocolate For Adults Only because it is certain to leave young, sugar-craving palates unsatisfied. But rest assured, it is appropriate for the most serious chocolate craving!

This is a way to obtain the rich flavors and textures of cocoa, the health benefits (for example, blood pressure reduction and anti-oxidation) of cocoa flavonoids, while obtaining none of the sugars/carbohydrates . . . and certainly no wheat or grains!

It is easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients, a few steps, and a few minutes. Set aside and save some for an indulgence, e.g., dip into natural peanut or almond butter.

Variations are easy too: a few drops of orange extract and orange zest, a few drops of peppermint extract, some unsweetened dried berries, and a few drops of berry extract, among others.

Regardless of which variation you choose to make, be sure to taste your mixture before allowing to solidify. Desired sweetness can vary widely, thus, you may wish to add more sweetener to suit your individual taste.

Makes approximately 24 2-inch pieces.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces 100% unsweetened chocolate
• 5 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• ½ cup dry roasted pistachios or other chopped nuts
• ¼ cup whole flaxseeds or chia seeds
• Sweetener equivalent to ½ cup sugar (e.g., 2 tbsp. Virtue Sweetener)

Directions:

Using double-boiler method, melt cocoa. Alternatively, melt cocoa in microwave in 15-20 second increments. Stir in coconut oil, nuts, and flaxseed or chia seeds. Stir in sweetener gradually, mixing thoroughly; adjust sweetener to taste.

Lay a sheet of parchment paper out on a large baking pan. Pour chocolate mixture slowly onto paper to create one large continuous chocolate, tilting the pan carefully to spread evenly until a thickness similar to thick cardboard obtained. Alternatively, pour out to make 2-inch rounds. Place pan in refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Remove chocolate and break by hand into pieces of desired size.

BONUS:

If your chocolate ambitions include peanut butter, then you will also love the Wheat-Free Market recipe for Chocolate-Peanut Butter Brownies, a healthy grain-free version of brownies that fit into your Wheat Belly lifestyle, while still great for children and grandchildren too.

Five good reasons to consume dark chocolate and cocoa.

1. It may have a positive effect on blood cholesterol levels because it consists mainly of stearic acid and oleic acid. Unlike most saturated fatty acids, stearic acid does not raise blood cholesterol levels. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fat that also does not raise cholesterol and may even reduce it.
    
2. Contains flavonoids (procyanidins and epicatechins). These are part of a group of powerful antioxidants known as polyphenols. They are found in a variety of foods including dark chocolate, tea, red wine, and various fruits and vegetables.
    
3. May improve mood and pleasure by boosting serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain. Cocoa beans also contain dopamine, phenylethylamine and serotonin, which are compounds that are known to enhance mood and promote feelings of well-being.
    
4. Regular consumption may be associated with better cognitive performance in the elderly.
    
5. Contains numerous minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Yours in grainless health,
Dr. William Davis