Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate, a beloved culinary ingredient, is characterized by its rich, intense flavor stemming from a high percentage of cocoa solids. It typically contains between 50% and 99% cocoa, offering a bittersweet taste that varies depending on the cocoa content and the presence of other ingredients like sugar and vanilla. The texture of dark chocolate ranges from firm and snappy to smooth and melt-in-your-mouth, depending on the quality and tempering process. Visually, it boasts a deep, dark brown hue, often with a glossy sheen, making it a visually appealing addition to desserts and confections. Discover the intense flavor and versatility of premium dark chocolate for baking, snacking, and gourmet creations.
Common Uses
- Dark chocolate is often used to create decadent desserts like chocolate cakes, brownies, and mousse due to its intense chocolate flavor which adds depth and richness.- Many gourmet chocolatiers temper dark chocolate to create glossy, smooth-textured chocolate bars, truffles, and pralines with superior snap and melt.- Dark chocolate ganache, a smooth and luscious mixture of dark chocolate and cream, is frequently used as a glaze for cakes, a filling for pastries, or the base for chocolate sauces.- It can be melted and drizzled over fresh fruit like strawberries and bananas, or nuts like almonds and walnuts, for an easy and elegant dessert or snack- Bakers often use dark chocolate shavings or chunks as a sophisticated topping for ice cream, yogurt, and oatmeal, adding both visual appeal and a burst of intense chocolate flavor.- Some people use dark chocolate in savory dishes like mole sauces to add depth of flavor, bittersweet notes and complexity to meat dishes
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
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Protein
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Carbs
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Sugars
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Healthy Fat
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Unhealthy Fat
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% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
0.0kcal
Protein
0.0g
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants to combat free radicals and oxidative stress.
- May improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.
- Can enhance brain function, including memory and focus.
- Contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc, essential for various bodily functions.
- May improve mood and reduce stress due to its flavanols and phenylethylamine content.
- Source of dietary fiber, promoting gut health and satiety.
Storage Tips
To preserve the quality of your dark chocolate, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors. An ideal temperature is between 60-70°F (16-21°C). Keep it in an airtight container or its original packaging to prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the surrounding environment. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator for long periods, as this can cause sugar bloom (a whitish coating), although it's still safe to eat. For very long-term storage, you can freeze dark chocolate, well-wrapped, for up to a year; thaw it slowly in the refrigerator to minimize condensation.
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