BENEFITS OF DARK CHOCOLATE

Dark chocolate is derived from beans from the cacao tree and you may be surprised to learn it has many health benefits. Dark chocolates with high percentages of cocoa from 70%, to 90% have a bitter taste, (especially when compared to milk chocolate) but dark chocolate contains high levels of cocoa which can provide many health benefits such as the following:

-         Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants helping to reduce cell damage from free radicals

-         It has anti-inflammatory benefits – may help fight heart disease improve blood flow and circulation

-         Can help lower cholesterol

-         Contains magnesium to help regulate blood sugars and iron which is important for growth and development 

-         May help to manage diabetes as it has a good effect on insulin and blood sugar levels

-         Is a good source of fibre especially if the cocoa content is high

-         The fatty acid found in dark chocolate helps improve mood by reducing stress hormones

COOKING WITH DARK CHOCOLATE

Chefs have also used dark chocolate to create dishes with intense tastes. Cooking with Dark Chocolate can add a wonderful richness to dishes (not just for chocolate cakes or cookies) but it can be added to cream to create a rich sauce to serve with steak. Did you know that it is the secret ingredient in chilli? Dark chocolate adds a rich, earthy taste to chilli and helps reduce the acidity of the tomatoes and peppers. 

TEMPERING TEMPERATURE

Melting chocolate known as “tempering” can be tricky if the temperature is not monitored. Dark chocolate that exceeds the correct cooking temperature will seize up or burn. It is important to ensure that the chocolate is melted at the correct temperature of approximately 30-32°C. A good thermometer will help you monitor the temperature so it doesn’t exceed the recommended cooking temperature.

Techris Systems provide a full range of food/cooking thermometers that are calibrated to National Standards with fast accurate readings to assist you with your everyday cooking and kitchen needs.

Click here to view our product range