Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

 

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries with Popped Quinoa

Extensive evidence shows dark chocolate with a 70 percent or greater cocoa content has heart health and cancer-fighting benefits, is rich in flavonoids which help reduce risk of heart attack and stroke, and contains a type of fat that does not increase blood cholesterol. Chocolate also triggers the release of endorphins giving you a rush of excitement similar to feelings of satisfaction from sex. What better balance than to share this romantic Valentine’s evening with a healthier, more stimulating version of a Valentine’s Day favorite, Chocolate Dipped Strawberries.
On average, 35 grams of 70% cocoa dark chocolate contains 5 percent fiber and protein. That’s before you add the strawberry and quinoa! Stay away from milk chocolate and dark chocolate candies which are loaded with extra sugar and avoid white chocolate which is not chocolate at all but is cocoa butter mixed with ingredients such as sugar, vanilla, and milk solids.
Naturally chocolate is not a replacement for fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, but on this day and any day, a little chocolate goes a long way in good health. Recommended quantities, no more than one ounce 3 to 5 days per week.

Recipe

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
dessert
Fresh strawberries are dipped in rich, dark chocolate and rolled in popped quinoa

Ingredients

1/4 cup uncooked, pre-washed quinoa
6 ounces 70% cocoa or greater dark chocolate
1 teaspoon coconut oil
12 fresh, plump, large strawberries, with leaves and stems, if preferred

Instructions

Heat a deep stockpot over medium high heat until hot but not smoking.
Add quinoa and using a wooden spoon, stir continually until quinoa begins to pop.
Keep stirring until popping subsides and quinoa appears lightly toasted.
Immediately pour into a small bowl to cool.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt chocolate and coconut oil in a double boiler until just melted.
Do not stir.
Once chocolate appears melted, stir slightly.
Be careful not to over-stir as the chocolate will seize up.
Grasp top of strawberry, including the leaves, and dip strawberry in melted chocolate mixture to coat. Place strawberry on parchment paper to rest.
Repeat with remaining strawberries.
Allow to rest 3 to 5 minutes then lightly roll in popped quinoa.
Return to parchment lined baking sheet to cool completely.

Serves

12

Preparation Time (hrs/min)

0, 30

Cooking Time (hrs/min)

0, 0

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