The Physiological Effects of Chocolate & Storing Chocolate

Are you a chocoholic, do you suffer from chocoholism, probably not as this is a word that has been invented for people who claim to be addicted to chocolate! However, in most instances they arent really chocoholics, they just really, really like chocolate.

Chocolate contains many substances some of them can be addictive like caffeine (in minute amounts) these include: Sugar is one of the main ingredients in chocolate, while there is little found in cocoa. The same chemical found in coffee and tea is also present in chocolate, this is caffeine.

Theobromine is one of the main causes for the mood-elevating effects of chocolate, found in larger quantities in dark chocolate and smaller amounts in milk chocolate. Found in small enough amounts for safe human consumption, animals can easily die of theobromine poisoning because their bodies do not metabolize this substance fast enough.

Anandamide which is also produced in the brain, is the primary psychoactive found in cannabis (marijuana). Studies are being conducted to relate how this plays a role in sleep and eating patterns and in pain relief. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid which is a precursor to Serotonin, important in regulating moods.

Phenylethylamine is also naturally produced in the brain and is often referred to as a love chemical. While it may be possible for the brain to become used to chocolate at regular intervals, and chocolate may be addictive, negatively affecting the health, this would only be if it were consumed in large amounts. 

Hypnotherapists claim that chocoholism can be treated by forcing the addict to compare consumption of chocolate with negative events. Chocoholic is a portmanteau (two or more word parts connected to give a combined meaning) of the words chocolate and alcoholic. 

Storing Chocolate:
Because chocolate is very sensitive to temperature and humidity it needs to be stored between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius or 59 to 63 degrees Fahrenheit, with a humidity level of less than 50%. It should be stored away from other foods because it does tend to absorb other aromas.

Chocolate should be wrapped or packed and stored in the correct temperature and humidity. The wrapping on chocolate should protect it from light and it should always be stored in a dark place. Cocoa butter crystals may form on chocolate that is left in the sun causing it to turn a grey color; this may also change the flavor slightly.

When chocolate is stored improperly is may appear dull or have grayish-white streaks and dots on it, this is called chocolate or fat bloom. This occurs when the cocoa butter has separated, rising to the surface. It is cause from being stored where it was too warm or humid. This causes a slight change in the taste of the chocolate, but it is still usable.

Improperly stored chocolate may have a chemical or musty smell, because it does pick up the odors of other foods, this is from improper wrapping during storage. Properly stored chocolate should be kept in a cool dry place, away from other aromas and out of heat and sunlight. When stored properly, cocoa and dark chocolate will last for many years. However, white and milk chocolate should only be stored for about 10 months because of the milk solids they contain.

When purchasing chocolate for baking or cooking it is important to check it out, making sure the quality is what you are looking for, check these things. Appearance: chocolate should appear smooth, glossy and unblemished. Aroma: chocolate should have a rich chocolatey smell, it should not be must or have the smell of any other food. Chocolate should break with a snap, it should not crumble, splinter or bend.

The texture of chocolate should be smooth a velvety, not grainy or greasy to the taste, it should immediately melt in your mouth. You should not be able to taste the other ingredients in chocolate, with a rich, well-balanced and pleasing flavor, neither too sweet nor too bitter. After tasting there should be a pleasant chocolate taste in your mouth, not burnt.

About the Author

Stephen Campbell is a Business Consultant, Internet Marketer & Entrepreneur. He produces topical articles, & newsletters for his clients such as those at http://www.EzineMarketingInformationCenter.Com/

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raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  chocolate cheesecake recipe   chocolate lover gift

Chocolate Lover Gift - Give the Gift of Chocolate

Almost everyone has a love for chocolate, even if they would rather deny it. The way its texture feels in your mouth as it melts is very satisfying and its richness takes this pleasure to a whole new level. Some people would even prefer chocolate to some other acts that may bring a lot of pleasure. So remember to give the gift of chocolate. It is the perfect chocolate lover gift.

Although chocolate is very delicious, some chocolates are more enjoyable than others. A Snickers bar is full of chocolate but it also is jam packed with peanuts and caramel so you have to eat your way around the candy bar to get your dose of pure chocolate. Thankfully, there are gourmet chocolates available to satisfy any chocolate lovers fix.

There are many different cocoa inspired delectable treats out there to please anyone. There are types of chocolate that some people probably never thought possible. Chocolates now can come in a chocolate-wine combination to serve as a decadent topping to any dessert. Some flavors include a chocolate espresso Merlot or a chocolate raspberry Cabernet. No one would have thought that wine and chocolate would fit well together but these gourmet chocolates, when paired with ice cream, would be sure delight anyone's taste buds. 

Truffles of all kinds are also available for those with an extra sweet tooth. Whether you love dark, milk or white chocolate it is all available out there for you. There are also boxes of chocolate to suit anyone's needs and those contain a wide variety of different gourmet chocolates. 

Some people really enjoy coffee filled chocolate or cherry filled chocolate. In a box of chocolate, all of these are possible and even things you never thought imaginable will be waiting for you when you open the lid. 

If you just want a plain chocolate bar than those are available too, virtually everywhere. Dark, milk or white chocolates are available for chocolate bars so you'll get your chocolate fix. You can break off a piece of the bar and simply let the chocolate melt slowly in your mouth as you let all your worries escape you. 

These small scrumptious treasures make a perfect gift for anyone. If you know a chocolate lover, then they will greatly appreciate the sophisticated taste of these gourmet delights. They will know that you spent your time and money buying them the only gift they really need. Stores that sell these delicious treats also have gift certificates available so if you can't pick out the perfect gourmet chocolates you can certainly let them do it with your gift for them.

About the Author: Alexa Peters
Visit www.chocolategiftguru.com to see how you can give the perfect chocolate lover gift on a discount budget.

Article Stars: http://articlestars.com

 

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  chocolate cheesecake recipe   dense chocolate cake recipe

A Delightfully Dense Chocolate Cake Recipe

This cake recipe is a necessity for the recipe files of all true chocoholics. When it's as easy as this one and as fabulous too, it's a total no-brainer!

Some vanilla ice cream would be proud to sit beside a piece of this cake.

Chocolate Cake

This cake is very moist and extremely easy to make.

3 eggs
2 cups sugar
6 tablespoons cocoa
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup margarine
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup boiling water or coffee
2 teaspoons vanilla

15-18 servings
45 minutes 5 mins prep

1. Measure all ingredients into mixing bowl.
2. Blend with electric mixer, beginning on low setting, and increasing speed until batter is of smooth consistency.
3. Pour into greased and floured cake pan (s) (1 9x13 or 3 small layer).
4. Bake at 350 degrees until toothpick tests clean.
5. Frost with your favorite frosting when cool

Chocolate Meringue Pudding:

For a small pudding use one pint of milk, two tablespoonfuls and a half of cornstarch, one ounce of Walter Baker & Co.'s Chocolate, two eggs, five tablespoonfuls of powdered sugar, one-fourth of a teaspoonful of salt, and half a teaspoonful of vanilla extract.

Mix the cornstarch with one gill of the milk. Put the remainder of the milk on to boil in the double-boiler. Scrape the chocolate.

When the milk boils, add the cornstarch, salt, and chocolate, and cook for ten minutes. Beat the yolks of the eggs with three tablespoonfuls of sugar.

Pour the hot mixture on this, and beat well. Turn into a pudding-dish that will hold about a quart, and bake for twenty minutes in a moderate oven.

Beat the whites of the eggs to a stiff, dry froth, and gradually beat in the remaining two tablespoonfuls of sugar and the vanilla. Spread this on the

pudding, and return to the oven.

Cook for fifteen minutes longer, but with the oven-door open. Serve either cold or hot.

Flourless Chocolate Torte:

A luscious recipe for flourless chocolate torte.

A flourless chocolate torte is a dream come true: silky smooth and rich. Your guests will be impressed whether you offer the basic recipe or the more elaborate offering. They'll be begging to know how you did it!

A decadent chocolate torte for serious chocoholics! Very rich...a little slice goes a long way!

Cake

1 cup unsalted butter

8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

5 large eggs

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup dark corn syrup

Glaze

3/4 cup whipping cream

8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

1 1/2 tablespoons light corn syrup

10 servings

1 hour 30 minutes 30 mins prep

1. For cake: Preheat oven to 350 F.

2. Butter and flour 9 inch diameter cake pan with 2 inch sides.

3. Line bottom of pan with parchment.

4. Dust pan with flour; tap out excess.

5. Stir butter and chocolate in heavy medium saucepan over low heat until smooth.

6. Set aside.

7. Using electric mixer, beat eggs and sugar in large bowl until slightly thickened.

8. Add corn syrup and beat until slowly dissolving ribbons form when beaters are lifted.

9. Pour chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and fold together gently.

10. Pour batter into prepared pan.

11. Bake until tip of knife inserted into center comes out clean, about 1 hour.

12. Cool completely in pan on rack.

13. Invert cake onto 7 1/2 inch cardboard round.

14. Peel off parchment.

15. Place cake on cardboard on rack set over a cookie sheet.

16. For Glaze: Bring cream to simmer in heavy medium saucepan.

17. Reduce heat to low.

18. Add chocolate; stir until melted.

19. Remove from heat; let stand until just cool.

20. Whisk in butter and syrup.

21. Pour glaze over cake; spread with spatula to cover top and sides.

22. Refrigerate cake overnight.

23. (Can be prepared 3 days ahead; cover and keep refrigerated.) Cut cake into slices.

24. Serve cold.

Flourless Chocolate Torte:

12 ounces bittersweet chocolate

3 cups (6 sticks) butter, plus more for pan

12 eggs, separated

1 1/4 cups sugar, plus more for pan

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Melt chocolate and butter in top of a double boiler. Remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until smooth. In another bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks hold, about 12 minutes. Blend egg yolk-sugar mixture into melted chocolate-butter mixture. Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.

Butter bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Dust it lightly with sugar. Pour the batter into the pan and bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake top cracks. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Source: http://www.articlecircle.com

About the Author

William Smith the author provides many more delicious chocolate recipes for you free at http://www.chocolateholygrail.com (All is Free)

   

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  chocolate cheesecake recipe   austin chocolate

chocolate recipe, dense chocolate recipe,chocolate meringue pudding,flourless chocolate torte

A Delightfully Dense Chocolate Cake Recipe

This cake recipe is a necessity for the recipe files of all true chocoholics. When it's as easy as this one and as fabulous too, it's a total no-brainer!

Some vanilla ice cream would be proud to sit beside a piece of this cake.

Chocolate Cake

This cake is very moist and extremely easy to make.

3 eggs
2 cups sugar
6 tablespoons cocoa
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup margarine
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup boiling water or coffee
2 teaspoons vanilla

15-18 servings
45 minutes 5 mins prep

1. Measure all ingredients into mixing bowl.
2. Blend with electric mixer, beginning on low setting, and increasing speed until batter is of smooth consistency.
3. Pour into greased and floured cake pan (s) (1 9x13 or 3 small layer).
4. Bake at 350 degrees until toothpick tests clean.
5. Frost with your favorite frosting when cool

Chocolate Meringue Pudding:

For a small pudding use one pint of milk, two tablespoonfuls and a half of cornstarch, one ounce of Walter Baker & Co.'s Chocolate, two eggs, five tablespoonfuls of powdered sugar, one-fourth of a teaspoonful of salt, and half a teaspoonful of vanilla extract.

Mix the cornstarch with one gill of the milk. Put the remainder of the milk on to boil in the double-boiler. Scrape the chocolate.

When the milk boils, add the cornstarch, salt, and chocolate, and cook for ten minutes. Beat the yolks of the eggs with three tablespoonfuls of sugar.

Pour the hot mixture on this, and beat well. Turn into a pudding-dish that will hold about a quart, and bake for twenty minutes in a moderate oven.

Beat the whites of the eggs to a stiff, dry froth, and gradually beat in the remaining two tablespoonfuls of sugar and the vanilla. Spread this on the

pudding, and return to the oven.

Cook for fifteen minutes longer, but with the oven-door open. Serve either cold or hot.

Flourless Chocolate Torte:

A luscious recipe for flourless chocolate torte.

A flourless chocolate torte is a dream come true: silky smooth and rich. Your guests will be impressed whether you offer the basic recipe or the more elaborate offering. They'll be begging to know how you did it!

A decadent chocolate torte for serious chocoholics! Very rich...a little slice goes a long way!

Cake

1 cup unsalted butter

8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

5 large eggs

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup dark corn syrup

Glaze

3/4 cup whipping cream

8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

1 1/2 tablespoons light corn syrup

10 servings

1 hour 30 minutes 30 mins prep

1. For cake: Preheat oven to 350 F.

2. Butter and flour 9 inch diameter cake pan with 2 inch sides.

3. Line bottom of pan with parchment.

4. Dust pan with flour; tap out excess.

5. Stir butter and chocolate in heavy medium saucepan over low heat until smooth.

6. Set aside.

7. Using electric mixer, beat eggs and sugar in large bowl until slightly thickened.

8. Add corn syrup and beat until slowly dissolving ribbons form when beaters are lifted.

9. Pour chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and fold together gently.

10. Pour batter into prepared pan.

11. Bake until tip of knife inserted into center comes out clean, about 1 hour.

12. Cool completely in pan on rack.

13. Invert cake onto 7 1/2 inch cardboard round.

14. Peel off parchment.

15. Place cake on cardboard on rack set over a cookie sheet.

16. For Glaze: Bring cream to simmer in heavy medium saucepan.

17. Reduce heat to low.

18. Add chocolate; stir until melted.

19. Remove from heat; let stand until just cool.

20. Whisk in butter and syrup.

21. Pour glaze over cake; spread with spatula to cover top and sides.

22. Refrigerate cake overnight.

23. (Can be prepared 3 days ahead; cover and keep refrigerated.) Cut cake into slices.

24. Serve cold.

Flourless Chocolate Torte:

12 ounces bittersweet chocolate

3 cups (6 sticks) butter, plus more for pan

12 eggs, separated

1 1/4 cups sugar, plus more for pan

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Melt chocolate and butter in top of a double boiler. Remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until smooth. In another bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks hold, about 12 minutes. Blend egg yolk-sugar mixture into melted chocolate-butter mixture. Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.

Butter bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Dust it lightly with sugar. Pour the batter into the pan and bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake top cracks. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Source: http://www.articlecircle.com

About the Author

William Smith the author provides many more delicious chocolate recipes for you free at http://www.chocolateholygrail.com (All is Free)

   

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  chocolate cheesecake recipe   austin chocolate

chocolate recipe, dense chocolate recipe,chocolate meringue pudding,flourless chocolate torte

Finding Your Chocolate Bliss in Austin

As Valentine's Day fast approaches, anxious paramours turn their attention to how best to express their affection. And of course, the preferred language for this expression is chocolate. Locating the perfect chocolate in Austin, Texas isn't actually as arduous as you might imagine. And if the city can't provide you with your vision of chocolate bliss, perhaps you can make a bit of your own at home.

Austin is home to several chocolatiers. Cocoa Puro boasts its unique Kakawa cocoa beans, fresh-roasted whole cocoa beans that are covered in layers of white, milk and dark chocolate. These specialty beans, ideal for the chocolate connoisseur, can be purchased on their website, at Central Market, Whole Foods, and at the downtown farmer's market, where you can even sample one before buying.

Flora and Faunas, located downtown on west 12th, is a cafe that also boasts fine chocolates, imported beers, estate wines, and flowers. Several tables are available, where you can taste the wares before purchasing. Carissa has no small following for her creative flower arrangements, so it could truly represent your one stop Valentine's shopping venue.

One of the chocolates one offer at Flora and Fauna come from the Fat Turkey Chocolate Company. This Austin-based company produces hand made chocolate truffles, chocolate cherries, sauces, and other gourmet goodies. Of particular note are the habanero chocolate truffles, which combine dark Belgian chocolate, fresh habaneros, heavy cream, and Anejo Tequila to create a truffle with a bit of a punch. Fat Turkey products can also be purchased on-line.

Viva Chocolato is a European style cafe and chocolate shop in the Domain shopping center, carrying a selection of oil-free chocolates from around the world as well as locally made chocolates. Their choices are exotic, including the blue cheese chocolate truffle. If a mere box of chocolates will not do for your Valentine, book your seat to experience the "Love Menu," which includes specialty wines, chicken parmesan, and of course chocolate marquis for dessert.

If your timing is right, you can swing into Amy's Ice Cream on February 13, 14, or 15 to pick up some of their once yearly chocolate dipped strawberries. These beauties are completely dipped in dark chocolate and are covered with a lattice of white chocolate. You can pre-order until the 12th to ensure you get your berries, as they generally sell-out. You can get a dozen dipped strawberries for $16.

However, if budget constraints put the purchase of homemade chocolates out of reach, you can still impress your Valentine with home-crafted chocolate treats of your own. Create a rich chocolate sauce simply and cheaply using cocoa in the cupboard. Store in a jar, and this sauce keeps in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. To make the chocolate sauce you'll need:

3/4 cup sifted unsweetened cocoa powder (dutch processed will give a better result)
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup cold water
2 TBs unsalted butter
A pinch of salt

Combine the cocoa, sugar, and salt together in a saucepan. Add the water and stir until smooth. Place over medium heat and keep stirring until the mixture comes to a low boil. Simmer for 3 minutes, add the butter, and stir until melted. Simmer 3 minutes more. For the truly lazy, put the whole works in a large glass bowl and make the sauce in your microwave. For an extra punch, replace 1/4 cup of the water with the liquerur of your choice, such as Grand Marnier. For a Mexican flair, add a pinch of cinnamon during the final 3 minutes. To make it uniquely Texan, add a pinch of cayenne in the final 3 minutes.

About the Author

Ki's real estate business is located in Central Austin. He designed a website, which includes a free search of theAustin MLS. His site also provides information about Austin real estate and commercial real estate in Austin.

Source: Content for Reprint

 

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  chocolate cheesecake recipe   valentines chocolate gift ideas

Crazily Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Only a chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake recipe could possibly be better than a chocolate covered strawberry. Try this yourself and see!

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

* 48 graham cracker squares -- ground
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1 cup butter -- melted
* 4 teaspoons Grand Marnier
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1 quart fresh strawberries -- stemmed
* 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
* 4 tablespoons Grand Marnier
* 2 teaspoons cornstarch
* 2 teaspoons water
* 24 ounces cream cheese -- softened
* 3 eggs
* 3/4 cup sugar
* 1 1/2 cup sour cream
* 4 1/2 teaspoons flour
* 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
* 3 tablespoons Grand Marnier
* 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate
* 1 teaspoon butter
* 1 cup confectioners' sugar -- sifted
* 3 tablespoons water
* 1/2 cup whipped cream -- chilled
* 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
* 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier

Crust:

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, butter, four teaspoons of liqueur and cinnamon. Mix well and press onto bottom and sides of a greased 10" springform pan. Chill.

Strawberry Layer:

Puree strawberries, confectioners sugar and four tablespoons of liqueur in a blender and place in top of a double boiler. Add cornstarch and water. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Cool to room temperature and set aside.

Cheesecake:

Cut cream cheese into small pieces and place in food processor or blender with the three eggs, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 1/2 cup sour cream, 4 1/2 teaspoons flour, 1 1/2 tsp vanilla and three tablespoons of liqueur. Blend just until smooth. Pour not quite half the cheesecake mixture into crust.

Carefully spoon strawberry layer over cheesecake, covering entirely, but not overlapping crust. Carefully pour rest of batter over strawberry layer.

Bake on cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 70 to 75 minutes, or until the cake no longer shakes in the center. Turn off oven, leave door ajar and allow the cake to remain inside for one hour.

Leave cake in pan, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The following day, remove cake from pan and set aside.

Chocolate Glaze: Melt chocolate and one teaspoon of butter in a double boiler. Add one cup of confectioners sugar and three tablespoons of water and mix well. Beat with wire whisk until smooth. While chocolate is still warm, spoon evenly over top of cheesecake and chill cake until glaze hardens.

Whipped Cream: Place 1/2 cup whipped cream, two tablespoons of confectioners sugar and one tablespoon of liqueur in a chilled bowl. With chilled beaters, whip until stiff.

Spoon into pastry bag with small rosette tip and decorate cheesecake. Serve cake with whole fresh strawberries.

Baked Chocolate Custard:

For five small custards use one pint of milk, two eggs, one ounce of Walter Baker & Co.'s Premium No. 1 Chocolate, one-fourth of a teaspoonful of salt, and a piece of stick cinnamon about an inch long.

Put the cinnamon and milk in the double-boiler, place on the fire and cook for ten minutes. Shave the chocolate, and put it in a small pan with three tablespoonfuls of sugar and one of boiling water.

Stir this over a hot fire until smooth and glossy, and then stir it into the hot milk, after which take the liquid mixture from the fire and cool.

Beat together with a spoon the eggs, salt and two tablespoonfuls of the sugar. Add the cooled milk and strain. Pour the mixture into the cups, which place in a deep pan.

Pour into the pan enough tepid water to come nearly to the top of the cups.

Bake in a moderate oven until firm in the center. It will take about half an hour.

Test by running a knife through the center. If the custard is milky, it is not done. Serve very cold.

Source: http://www.articlecircle.com

About the Author

William Smith the author provides many more delicious chocolate recipes for you free at http://www.chocolateholygrail.com (All is Free)

   

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  raspberry chocolate cheesecake recipe   valentines chocolate gift ideas

7 Terrific Valentine Chocolate Gift Ideas for Her

Nothing melts a chocolate lover's heart like a valentines chocolate gift. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to create your own unique gift that will show her how much you love her on Valentine's Day. Here are valentine chocolate gift ideas for the chocolate lover in your life.

Chocolate Kisses
You really should give her more than the old standby, but if you insist, at least be creative on how you give them to her. There are many different ways you can use kisses without coming across cheap. You can create your own red or pink gift box and pack the inside with kisses with a love letter. Another thing you can do is make a path of chocolate kisses that leads to another gift like a bouquet of red roses.

Chocolate Heart Box
Either create your own heart-shaped box or look for a nice fancy one and fill it with gourmet chocolates and truffles. You can buy candy boxes in the shape of a heart but leave the candy out and replace it with gourmet chocolates. You could even put chocolate kisses inside.

Valentines Chocolate Card
Visit a specialty candy shop, or confectionery store, and have them create a card made entirely out of chocolate. This is a unique valentines chocolate gift she'll be sure to remember.

Bouquet of Chocolate Roses
Sure red roses are nice, but why not try something totally different? Why not give her a bouquet of chocolate roses instead? Better yet, combine the two and create a bouquet of real roses mixed with chocolate roses.

Chocolate Basket
Create a gift basket that is filled with her favorite chocolates, or surprise her and include chocolates she's never tried before. You can also include chocolate covered pretzels or strawberries and top it off with an arrangement of chocolate roses. A romantic music cd and a bottle of wine is a nice touch. The possibilities are endless. Be creative!

Chocolate Fountain
Put the fondue maker back in the closet and instead bring out the latest chocolate craze - the chocolate fountain. Imagine her coming home to a flowing fountain of chocolate with red roses surrounding it with romantic music playing in the background.

Chocolate Tour
Take her to a local chocolate factory or if you want to go all out, take her on a weekend getaway to Hershey, Pennsylvania! That would be the ultimate valentine chocolate gift!

Valentine's Day doesn't always have to be about roses and jewelry. She'll appreciate a heart-felt gift you created for her more than anything. These valentine chocolate gift ideas should help you get your creative juices flowing so that you can create a romantic gift for her that she'll never forget!
 

About the author: Travis Van Slooten
For more valentine chocolate gift ideas and other romantic gifts for her and him, visit http://www.romanticonlinegifts.com  

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raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  is chocolate healthy

Is Chocolate That Healthy?

It is great news that research has found a food that lowers blood pressure and is healthy for the heart and maybe more. The problem is that the chocolate Americans consume most is not the kind that was studied. The more popular kinds of chocolate have little or no positive effect on your health. Only certain chocolate may be healthy.

Dark chocolate is the chocolate that was found to have positive effects on blood pressure. Participants, either given dark, milk, or white chocolate every day were evaluated in different studies. It turns out that dark chocolate contains important antioxidants called phenols. These natural compounds from the cocoa bean are known to increase nitric oxide, reduce platelet aggregation, and inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Cocoa can decrease blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and increase your insulin sensitivity. Milk and white chocolate are low in these antioxidants and do not have the same effect.

The problem is how chocolate is processed in this country. White chocolate, regardless of where you get it, actually contains no cocoa at all and is made only from cocoa butter; just the fat from the cocoa beans. It also contains no phenols. Most of the other chocolate we eat is made with "dutched" cocoa. The cocoa beans are treated with an alkaline solution to make them dark in color and reduce the natural bitterness from the plant. But it also reduces almost 90% of the phenols and most of its healthy benefits. The other problem is that when made into milk chocolate, the milk seems to prevent the phenols from being absorbed and, thus, negating any possible benefit from the chocolate.

The best chocolate for your health appears to be dark chocolate. In the European studies done, participants ate 100gm of chocolate a day (100 grams equals approx. 3.5 ounces). This is the equivalent to 2 1/2 regular size Hershey's bars. It also added about 550 calories to their diet. They were instructed to substitute this amount of calories from other foods they normally ate each day. You would have to do the same or forego its healthy benefits by increasing your waistline. European chocolate in general is healthier than that found in America due to the fact that it is less processed than ours and contains more of the heart healthy antioxidants. Dark chocolate is an acquired taste for most Americans since it is much more bitter than its milky counterpart.

So why is this research being touted as the 'best medical news in ages'? It appears to be one more way we look to justify the unhealthy diets we follow. When people hear that chocolate is now healthy, they don't hear any of the other restrictions involved, and don't want to. In fact, most people wouldn't want to change to a more bitter tasting chocolate and also cut out over 500 calories from their diets as they did in the studies. Our diets already have enough sweets and this type of news only fuels the diabetic and obesity epidemics. This kind of medical news will only make most people add extra calories to their diets and increase their health problems.

These studies do look promising but there still is no information on how long these benefits last, how many phenols need to be eaten or how often. Stick with the darkest chocolate, if you must, and balance out your calories. Until we have more information, chocolate should remain a treat and not a treatment.

Source: Free Articles

About the Author: GeraldMeyer

More information on the benefits of green tea can be found at http://www.natural-weight-loss-programs.com/greentea.htm. Free trials green tea patches and instant beverages are available while supplies last. Find out the benefit of green tea for yourself today. And, learn more about the new superfood - the amazon super berry - acai. Acai may be the most nutritious and powerful food in the world. MonaVie is the next generation of health food.
 

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  gourmet chocolates

Gourmet Chocolates... Everybody's Weakness

We all know, that everybody love chocolates. Chocolate is the voice of passion and love, whether it is the love of chocolate itself or as an expression of love for another human being. The way its texture feels in your mouth as it melts is very satisfying and its richness takes this pleasure to a whole new level. Some people would even prefer chocolate to some other acts that may bring a lot of pleasure. Valentine's Day or Saturday, chocolate is the perfect gift for those we care about or just want to impress.

Yeah, it's right that chocolate is very delicious, some chocolates are more enjoyable than others. A Snickers bar is full of chocolate but it also is jam packed with peanuts and caramel so you have to eat your way around the candy bar to get your dose of pure chocolate. Thankfully, there are gourmet chocolates available to fulfill any chocolate lovers hole.

However, you can give lavishness chocolates if you ever wanted to make friends with someone. But, I wonder why other people don't like dark chocolates. Even gourmet restaurants leave me indifferent most of the time. Usually, one meal is as good as the other. Nonetheless, real gourmet chocolates really blow me away. There's just something about them, you know? They are so rich, so sweet, so complex and flavorful, and so lingering in texture and taste that they completely overwhelm me. I'm not particularly a big eater. To me there is nothing in this world that is better.

In fact, I get literally high when I eat Belgian chocolates. Sometimes, a gourmet chocolate really throws me off order. I'll have to sit down after a particularly good trouble. You might think I'm joking, but I'm not. One of my good friends always makes fun of me. He told me that if he enjoyed his gourmet chocolates as much as I do, he'd be really fat.

To tell you, it's really funny, the gourmet chocolate I eat doesn't make me fat. This is because I am careful with it. My philosophy about things that you really enjoy is that you should save them for special occasions. otherwise, if you enjoy gourmet food enough you may get spoiled for normal food. As it is, I can enjoy regular chocolate candies every now and then. They taste good to me. Even though they are not as good as gourmet chocolates, I certainly don't complain. This is because I don't exclusively eat gourmet chocolate. If I had it every day, I would be able to eat cake, pie, candy, or any other sweets. I would even be bored by fruits.

You should know that, there are many different kinds of gourmet chocolates that are good. Having rich, dark chocolate unpolluted by other flavors is enough to satisfy the craving. Then again, sometimes it is nice to have a good chocolate truffle or something like that. Truffles of all kinds are also available for those with an extra sweet tooth. Whether you love dark, milk or white chocolate it is all available out there for you. There is such a nice, complex balance of different flavors there. They all contribute to the whole experience. Together, the truffle as a whole is more delicious than any of its parts.

Plus, there are also boxes of chocolate to suit anyone’s needs and those contain a wide collection of different gourmet chocolates. Some people really enjoy coffee filled chocolate or cherry filled chocolate. In a box of chocolate, all of these are possible and even things you never thought imaginable will be waiting for you when you open the lid.

And likewise, if you want a plain chocolate bar than those are available too, all but everywhere. Dark, milk or white chocolates are available for chocolate bars so you’ll get your chocolate fix. You can break off a piece of the bar and simply let the chocolate melt slowly in your mouth as you let all your worries escape you.

Aside from those chocolates mentioned above, there are also other different cocoa inspired delectable treats out there to please anyone. There are types of chocolate that some people probably never thought possible. As what I have discovered that chocolates now can come in a chocolate-wine combination to serve as a decadent topping to any dessert. Some flavors include a chocolate espresso merlot or a chocolate raspberry cabernet. No one would have thought that wine and chocolate would fit well together but these gourmet chocolates, when paired with ice cream, would be sure to ticket anyone’s taste buds.

Unfortunately, these small luscious treasures make a perfect gift for anyone. If you know a chocolate lover, then they will greatly appreciate the sophisticated taste of these gourmet delights. They will know that you spent your time and money buying them the only gift they really need. Stores that sell these delicious treats also have gift certificates available so if you can’t pick out the perfect gourmet chocolates you can certainly let them do it with your gift for them. After all, it reminds us that we can enjoy our favorite treat knowing it's good for the body and perhaps also the mind.

Article Source: http://www.articlemotron.com

Chocolate is the voice of passion and love, whether it is the love of chocolate itself or as an expression of love for another human being. The way its texture feels in your mouth as it melts is very satisfying and its richness takes this pleasure to a whole new level.

For more information about Gourmet Foods and gourmet chocolates, please visit our web site.

 

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  raspberry chocolate cheesecake recipe

The Ultimate Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Brace yourself for a heavenly experience!

Ingredients

# 5 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon (1/3 cup) melted unsalted butter, in all
# 8 ounces chocolate wafer or icebox cookies
# 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, in all
# 1 1/2 pounds cream cheese, at room temperature
# 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted
# 1/2 cup raspberry liqueur, such as Chambord
# 4 large eggs
# 1/2 cup heavy cream
# 1 cup sour cream
# 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
# 1 pint fresh raspberries

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter the sides and bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with 1 teaspoon of the butter.

2. In a food processor grind the chocolate wafers into fine crumbs. Add the remaining 5 tablespoons melted butter and 2 tablespoons of the granulated sugar and blend thoroughly. Press evenly into the bottom and partway up the sides of the springform pan.

3. In a bowl beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer at high speed until smooth and creamy, for about 5 minutes. Beat in the melted chocolate and the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar until thoroughly blended. Beat in the raspberry liqueur and continue beating until the mixture is very smooth, for about 4 minutes.

4. Set the mixer at low speed and add the eggs one at a time, beating each until incorporated but taking care not to overbeat. Add the heavy cream and beat just until incorporated, for about 30 seconds.

5. Pour the mixture into the crust in the springform pan and bake until firm, for about 50 minutes. The filling should seem soft in the middle; don't overbake. Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature.6. In a small bowl whisk the sour cream together with the confectioners' sugar until smooth and creamy. Spread this topping over the cooled cake and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Remove from the refrigerator and remove the springform ring.

7. To serve, top the cake with the raspberries and cut it into wedges.

Chocolate Souffle:

Half a pint of milk, two ounces of Walter Baker & Co.'s Chocolate, three tablespoonfuls of sugar, one rounding tablespoonful of butter, two tablespoonfuls of flour, four eggs.

Put the milk in the double-boiler, and place on the fire. Beat the butter to a soft cream, and beat the flour into it. Gradually pour the hot milk on this, stirring all the time. Return to the fire and cook for six minutes.

Put the shaved chocolate, sugar, and two tablespoonfuls of water in a small pan over a hot fire, and stir until smooth and glossy. Stir this into the mixture in the double-boiler.

Take from the fire and add the yolks of the eggs, well beaten; then set away to cool. When cool add the whites of the eggs, beaten to a stiff froth.

Pour the batter into a well-buttered earthen dish that will hold about a quart, and cook in a moderate oven for twenty-two minutes. Serve immediately with vanilla cream sauce

Article Source: http://contentsource.co.za 

About The Author
William Smith the author provides many more delicious chocolate recipes for you free at Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe (All is Free)

 

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  chocolate allergy

Chocolate Allergy

If you have an Chocolate Allergy then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Scientists do not clearly understand why the immune system of people allergic to chocolate considers some food proteins as harmful by the body.

The immune system can mount a variety of defenses mechanisms against proteins that is considers as harmful or foreign. Symptoms can be very mild to life-threatening depending on the severity of your chocolate allergies. They usually occur within a few minutes to a few hours after eating or inhaling chocolate.

True allergies to chocolate or cocoa are very rare. Other ingredients, additives or chemicals found in processed chocolate such as nuts, milk, gluten from wheat, soybeans, corn, syrup, caffeine, Theo-bromine, and Phenyl-ethylamine, cause most allergic reactions to chocolate. The higher the quality of chocolate the lower the chances of other additives being found in chocolate.

Cocoa is made from the seeds of the cocoa tree that have been fermented, roasted and then ground up. The cocoa tree originated in Central America but is now grown in tropical climates around the world.

The proteins found in chocolate trigger the immune system to reaction. Antibodies and histamines are releases into the blood stream in an attempt to neutralize the chocolate protein. These chemicals trigger the allergic symptoms. In sever cases Epinephrine, also call Adrenaline, is administered to control the anaphylaxis reaction.

If you are unsure if you are allergic to chocolates then one of the tests you could be given is called Food Challenge Test. Avoid all chocolates for several weeks. The doctor will then give you pure chocolate without any of the other ingredients usually found in processed chocolate. This test needs to be given under close supervision by an allergist. If you are truly allergic to chocolate a violent reactions may occur and emergency medical attention may be needed. If symptoms appear within two hours after the taking the pill then you are allergic to it and will need to avoid it.

Avoidance can be very difficult because cocoa is often hidden in other foods. Read the labels of every food that you bring into your home. Because the manufacturing processes change continuously re-read the labels each time you purchase a product. On January 1, 2006 a new law was passed stating that all labels should be designed in such a way that a 7-year-old child could read and understand the ingredients.

Some of the health benefits of eating chocolate, in moderation of course, are reducing the risk of hart disease, increase longevity, increases libido and increased sexual fulfillment. Antioxidants are also found in chocolate and are believed to lower the amount of cholesterol in the blood stream. Just because it tastes good does not mean that it is bad for you so enjoy the occasional teat, you deserve it.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Allergies such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Pantothenic Acid, Glucosamine, Antioxidants, Allergy Aid, and Quercitin.

Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

Up to one-third of older people can no longer absorb Vitamin B from their food. Vitamin B is needed to form red blood cells and keep nerves healthy.

Vitamin C is nature's protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system.

Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency.

Vitamin E protects the lung tissue from inhaled pollutants and aids in the functioning of the immune system.

Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and may give some relief from allergy symptoms.

Substances called antioxidants can neutralize free radical by pairing up or binding with the free radical elections thus inhibiting them from damaging cells in the human body.

Allergy Aid supplies 9 beneficial Herb's to help provide temporary relief of respiratory allergies. The natural action of these specific Herb's help to open bronchial tubes and ease breathing.

Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing Chocolate Allergy symptoms.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Author Resource:- David Cowley has created numerous articles on allergies. He has also created a Web Site dedicated to allergies and how to treat them. Visit http://www.allergies-team.com


Article From Article Health And Fitness

 

raw chocolate bar recipes  health benefits of chocolate  dark chocolate  wine and chocolate