Chocolate – A gift that keeps on giving

One of the most commonly used and loved ingredients in the culinary world is chocolate , whether it is a sweet or savory dish chocolate can be used in several ways making it a very versatile ingredient. Over the years there have been so many dishes that chocolate has made better, it is hard not to be completely in love with it. Also considering that today 7^th of July is World Chocolate Day it is only fitting that we explore the world of chocolate and what exactly it is that makes this ingredient so wonderful.

Starting with the basics, it is a well-known fact that there are three primary types of chocolate: milk, dark and white. Although some may argue that dark chocolate is the best out of all, they have some strong competition from milk chocolate fans.

The Science behind Chocolate:

1 – Lowering the risk of Cholesterol – A growing problem that is taking the world by storm, cholesterol seems to be an issue for many. However studies have shown that dark chocolate if consumed in the right amount could help manage cholesterol levels in the body. How it works is that flavonoid rich cocoa which is an essential ingredient in chocolate is known to lower ‘LDL cholesterol’ AKA bad cholesterol and increase ‘HDL cholesterol’ AKA good cholesterol.

2 – Lower risk of heart disease and stroke – Similar to lowering the risk of cholesterol, studies have shown that consuming chocolate could reduce the risk of developing heart disease by one-third. People who ate one serving of chocolate were 22 % less likely to experience a stroke.

3 – Chocolate can make you happy – When consumed the tryptophan in chocolate helps increase the production of serotonin which is the brain’s natural anti-depressant. This feeling could be compared to immense joy or love which is what happens when you taste or smell chocolate. So in a way you could say that chocolate is making the world a happier place one tasty bite at a time .

Top 5 Must Try Healthy Chocolate Recipes

1 – Coffee Chia Pudding – This easy to make dish combines the three C’s : Coffee , Chia and Chocolate. After all who doesn’t love a dish that is not only tasty but also healthy , well you are in luck because after eating one spoon of this coffee chia pudding you will definitely crave more and will wonder where this recipe has been all your life.

 https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Coffee-Chia-Pudding---SK-Khazana.html

2 –Oats Chocolate Chip Waffle – A breakfast favorite loved by many has now become a whole lot healthier. Using the lovely combination of oats and chocolate ,these crispy waffles have been taken up a notch not only in terms of taste but also nutrition. Will you be making these scrumptious treats for breakfast , we know we will.

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Oats-Chocolate-Chip-Waffle.html

3 – Chocolate Avocado Smoothie –Feeling adventurous but want something without any hassle ? Well it looks as if a chocolate avocado smoothie is just the thing that you need to brighten up your day.  This blend of chocolate and avocado is not only sweet but also healthy making you stress free.

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Chocolate-Avocado-Smoothie.html

4 – Low fat chocolate pudding - Giving into your chocolate cravings while wanting to maintain a decent weight is a challenge most of us have faced and hence this recipe! Low calorie chocolate pudding made with simple healthy ingredients and really light on the tummy!

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Low-Fat-Chocolate-Pudding-Sanjeev-Kapoor-Kitchen-FoodFood.html

5 – Matcha White Chocolate Latte – In the mood for some green tea with a twist , well lucky for you because we have got just the thing. Bringing together the great powers that are matcha and milk chocolate we bring to you this piping hot drink that will surely knock your socks off and have you feeling like a culinary scientist.

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Matcha-White-Chocolate-Latte.html