Cooking with Chocolate: Adding Unique Depth to Savory Dishes

The Versatility of Chocolate in Savory Cooking

While chocolate is often associated with sweet treats like cakes, brownies, and hot cocoa, its potential in savory dishes is gaining recognition. This culinary trend is not new; it has deep roots in South American cuisine, where cocoa has been celebrated for its health benefits and used in savory dishes for centuries.

Historical Context: Chocolate in Savory Dishes

In South America, the use of dark chocolate in savory dishes dates back hundreds of years. The popular Central American dish, mole, which originated in the 16th century, is a prime example. Mole combines dark chocolate with onions, garlic, chili, and other spices to create a rich marinade for chicken or turkey.

When cocoa was introduced to Europe in the 16th century, sugar was added, transforming it into the sweet treat we know today. However, before this shift, cocoa was considered a spice and used to add a velvety depth to savory foods.

The European Culinary Trend

Europe is now rediscovering the savory potential of chocolate. From the warm, buttery flavor of cocoa butter squares to the bitter richness of 85% dark chocolate, cooking with chocolate is becoming increasingly popular in European kitchens.

Savory Recipes Featuring Chocolate

If you're curious about how chocolate can enhance savory dishes, here are some recipes to try:

Beef Chili

A warm bowl of chili is a family favorite, especially on chilly winter nights. Adding a square of dark chocolate, such as Divine's 85% cocoa solids, can introduce a new layer of flavor. If you're hesitant, start with a few shavings to see how the chocolate complements the spices, adding depth and complexity.

Cocoa Ribs

Cooking with chocolate doesn't have to be complicated. Create a fragrant rub for barbecued ribs by mixing cocoa powder with salt, pepper, ginger, allspice, and cinnamon. Cocoa pairs well with a variety of spices, making it a versatile seasoning for different meats.

Curried Cocoa Butter Couscous

Cocoa butter adds a rich, buttery flavor to vegetable dishes, balancing the sweetness of root vegetables. Combine cocoa butter with curry powder and your favorite spices to create a unique dish. Cocoa butter squares, like those produced by Venchi, contain no cholesterol or hydrogenated fats, making them a healthy alternative to other oils.

The Nutritional Benefits of Cooking with Chocolate

Dark chocolate and cocoa butter are not only flavorful but also offer health benefits. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Cocoa butter is a good source of healthy fats and contains no cholesterol or hydrogenated fats.

Interesting Stats

• Antioxidant Power: Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, more than many fruits, including blueberries and acai berries (Healthline).
• Heart Health: Consuming dark chocolate can reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health).

Conclusion

Once you discover the intensity and depth of flavor that chocolate can bring to savory dishes, you'll find a whole new culinary market for dark chocolate and cocoa butter. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, experimenting with chocolate in savory recipes can open up a world of new flavors and possibilities.

By exploring the savory side of chocolate, you can elevate your cooking and surprise your taste buds with rich, complex flavors. So, why not give it a try and see how chocolate can transform your savory dishes?