I'm a big fan of cooking with chocolate, and I'm sure that there are more than a few of chocoholics reading this right now. Chocolate is one of the world's most beloved discoveries, and when we need a quick boost of energy and endorphins, chocolate is the go-to treat.
We want to maintain a healthy weight during the colder months and the holidays, however, so chocolate, as well as all other decadent foods, should be eaten in moderation. But it's good to know about the health benefits that can come from eating chocolate, especially dark chocolate. Besides giving us a quick pick-me-up or settling the stomach after a hearty dinner, dark chocolate is actually rich in antioxidants (the same that can be found in green tea) that reduce cellular and arterial damage. The darker the chocolate is, the more antioxidants it contains. So when eaten in moderation -- just a few bites from a well-made dark chocolate bar, for instance -- there's no need to feel bad about indulging once in awhile.
Aside from the obvious chocolate cookies and ice cream, chocolate can be used in a variety of ways for desserts. To prove that, Food Republic and I have put together our top 10 favorite dessert recipes that use chocolate in exciting and possibly new ways. Check out these 10 great recipes and for more, visit my website (MarcusSamuelsson.com) and follow me on Twitter (@MarcusCooks).
Are you a chocolate lover?
