Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Disidente - Pina (Pineapple) Colombian Craft Chocolate (bar) - Aug. 31, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

(Cacao) Disidente
Colombian Cacao Taxonomy
(Manufactured by El Colaboratorio)
Pina (Pineapple)
Good +
Weight: 1.41 oz. (40 g.) in total bar
Calories: 191 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $6.50 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #1 of Chocolate and Colombia Theme Week.

Today's Disidente Pina (Pineapple) Colombian craft chocolate (bar) was manufactured by El Colaboratorio (Bogota, Colombia). 

Disidente creates bean-to-bar chocolates that celebrate the agricultural biodiversity of Colombia. They use Colombian-grown cacao(s)--sourced from cacao co-operatives and organizations/fermenteries in different regions of Colombia. Many bars also contain fruit and/or nut flavor inclusions.

Aroma notes for this Pina (Pineapple) bar (in order of appearance) included: chocolate (implied Criollo*), fruit, pineapple, vanilla,* cake. 

Flavor notes were more chocolate-forward initially, followed by a blooming of concentrated (dried), authentic pineapple flavor that became dominant in the blend and extended into the finish. The base chocolate (from what I could tell) had mild notes of stone fruit, milk/cream,* very faint light bitter earth (although the pineapple may have influenced, or even created the latter), and very fleeting, very faint molasses/brown sugar.

The cacao percentage was no listed on the label. I thought it might be 60-65% cacao chocolate. (The current version of this Pina bar on company's website lists it as a 70% bar when I checked today.) It was hard to determine, as the pineapple added natural sweetness. (Also, if the makers used a more delicate heritage Criollo or similar cacao, and a lighter roast, the resulting chocolate might have tasted milder or lighter.) 

Ingredients: Cocoa beans, organic cane sugar, cocoa butter (and pineapple pieces). 

Allergen-related information: (No information listed on label.)

*There were no vanilla or milk ingredients listed in this bar. The pineapple and sugar may have evoked memories of pineapple upside down (vanilla) cake. As for the "milk/cream" notes, Criollo (variety of cacao) will sometimes have notes of milk or cream.

  

Mid-Day Squares - Functional Chocolate Bar - Almond Crunch - Aug. 30, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Mid-Day Squares
Functional Chocolate Bar - Almond Crunch
Good +
Weight: 2.33 oz. (66 g.) in total pkg. of 2 squares 
Calories: 340 calories in 2 squares (1 package)
Cost: $3.69 for 1 package of 2 squares
Purchased from: Sprouts Farmers Market, Mountain View, CA

Welcome to Day #8 of Cold Chocolate Theme Week, featuring frozen and refrigerated chocolate items.

Today's Almond Crunch Functional Chocolate Bar (2 bar-like squares in one package) hailed from Mid-Day Squares (Montreal, Canada). 

The company offers refrigerated bars/squares (including today's Almond Crunch--and two Squares product line sibling flavors: "Fudge Yah" and "Peanut Butta").

This square duo had a pleasing aroma with fudge nut brownie and chocolate almond granola notes; and had more (visible) layered soft and crunchy textures and flavors than a conventional chocolate bar, making it more complex and interesting. (It was topped with a layer of raw, dark chocolate.)

Flavor notes included: chocolate brownie with crunchy, nutty almond bits, and natural, sweet green and maple/caramelized brown sugar and nuts and crispy (implied flour-free chocolate, almond lace) cookie notes.

Seeking to transcend traditional snacks and traditional powdery/dry protein bars, these functional chocolates were defined as: "a chocolate bar with the functions of a protein bar."

Each package/pair of 2 refrigerated organic, gluten-free squares contained 12 g. of "clean" plant protein (almonds, brown rice, sacha inchi,* hemp, etc.--with no soy or dairy), and fiber, yet tasted like a "real" dark chocolate bar with crushed almonds that just happened to be more filling.

Ingredients: Organic roasted almonds, semi-sweet chocolate, (chocolate, cocoa butter, cocoa powder (processed with alkali), coconut sugar, 

Allergen-related information: "Contains almonds, coconut...May contain hazelnuts, peanuts."

*Sacha Inca protein comes from edible seeds from a shrubby plant (Plukenetia volubilis) that grows in Peru and other Amazon-proximate South American countries. These nut-like seeds are also known as sacha, mountain or Inca peanuts. 

The seeds develop inside unique, flower- or star-shaped pods; and each of the four or five "petals" contain a nut-like seed. 



Perfect Bar - Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt Refrigerated Peanut Butter Cups - Aug. 29, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Perfect Bar LLC
Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt Refrigerated Peanut Butter Cups
Good +
Weight: 1.4 oz. (40 g.) in total package of 2 cups
Calories: 210 calories in 2 cups
Cost: $2.00 (sale) for 1 package of 2 cups
Purchased from: Sprouts Farmers Market, Mountain View, CA

Welcome to Day #7 of Cold Chocolate Theme Week.

Today's Perfect Snacks Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt Refrigerated Peanut Butter Cups were from Perfect Bar LLC, a family-founded company based in San Diego, CA.

These dark chocolate round mounds (cups) had an aroma with naturally sweet plant (green, maple) and nutty notes. The filled cups had a smooth outer dark chocolate coating with visible tiny, sparkling salt crystals, and a substantial, chunky filling (coarsely ground peanut butter + "superfood" powders).

If you're in the mood for a more savory than sweet treat, this "Perfect Snack" with satisfying sea salt and nut flavor might be perfect for you. The 7 grams of protein in 1 package of 2 cups (primarily from peanuts, milk, egg and rice protein) made this snack feel filling (closer to a meal replacement/protein bar than a dessert).

Ingredients: Organic peanut butter, organic and fair trade dark chocolate (organic cacao beans, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter, sunflower lecithin), organic honey, organic nonfat dry milk, organic rice protein, organic dried whole egg powder, sea salt, dried whole food powders (organic kale, organic flax seed, organic rose hip, organic orange, organic lemon, organic papaya, organic tomato, organic apple, organic alfalfa, organic celery, organic kelp, organic dulse, organic carrot, organic spinach), organic sunflower lecithin, organic flax seed oil, organic sunflower oil, organic sesame seed oil, organic olive oil, organic pumpkin seed oil.

Allergen-related information: "Contains peanuts, milk, and eggs." (Also contains sesame.) "Processed on equipment also handling tree nuts. May contain occasional nut shells."


Saturday, August 28, 2021

Perfect Bar - Dark Chocolate Mint Refrigerated Peanut Butter Cups - Aug. 28, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Perfect Bar LLC
Dark Chocolate Mint Refrigerated Peanut Butter Cups
Good +
Weight: 1.4 oz. (40 g.) in total package of 2 cups
Calories: 210 calories in 2 cups
Cost: $2.00 (sale) for 1 package of 2 cups
Purchased from: Sprouts Farmers Market, Mountain View, CA

Welcome to Day #6 of Cold Chocolate Theme Week.

Today's "Perfect Snacks" Dark Chocolate Mint Refrigerated Peanut Butter Cups were from Perfect Bar LLC (San Diego, CA).

These cool, filled chocolates had a pleasing peppermint-infused chocolate aroma.
Smooth dark chocolate surrounded a thick, coarsely ground, authentic-tasting nutty center with myriad tiny peanut bits and other ingredients (see below). 

The refreshing dark chocolate mint flavor was made moreso because the cups were refrigerated. These cool chocolates were perfect for eating during a heat wave. (And we are having one this week; so cold chocolates have been extra enjoyable.)

The chocolate, mint and peanut flavors were nicely balanced, and harmonized well. These cups were not too sweet or salty, and that allowed for greater enjoyment of the underlying flavors (thank you).

The decision to incorporate 7 grams of protein (in 2 cups), primarily from peanuts, milk and rice protein--as well as the inclusion of various "superfood" powders and oils (from fruits, vegetables, seeds)--made these cups a substantial and satisfying (more filling) snack as well. 

Ingredients: Organic peanut butter, organic and fair trade dark chocolate (organic cacao beans, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter, sunflower lecithin), organic honey, organic non-fat dry milk, organic cocoa, organic rice protein, organic dried whole egg powder, organic vanilla extract, dried whole food powders (organic kale, organic flax seed, organic rose hip, organic orange, organic lemon, organic papaya, organic tomato, organic apple, organic alfalfa, organic celery, organic kelp, organic dulse*, organic carrot, organic spinach), organic sunflower lecithin, peppermint oil, organic flax seed oil, organic sunflower oil, organic sesame seed oil.organic olive oil, organic pumpkin seed oil. 

Allergen-related information: "Contains peanuts, milk, and eggs." (Also some sesame.) "Produced on equipment also handling tree nuts. May contain occasional nut shells."

*Dulse is a dark red, edible seaweed that contains minerals (iodine, potassium) and omega-3 fatty acids.

Friday, August 27, 2021

Graeter's - Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream - Aug. 27, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Graeter's Ice Cream Co. 
Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Good +
Weight: 2/3 cup (144 g.) / 1 Pint (473 mL) in total container
Calories: 390 calories in 2/3 cup serving
Cost: $8.49 for 1 container
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #5 of Cold Chocolate Theme Week, featuring frozen and refrigerated items with chocolate.

Today's Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream is from Graeter's Ice Cream Co. (Cincinnati, OH). 

The family-owned company's origins stretch back five generations to 1870. They still use a "French Pot Process" where small batches are made in small, very cold pots (and stirred by hand with a paddle, if the picture on the website is correct).

I have fond childhood memories of eating black raspberry chocolate chip ice cream in the back yard in the summer. So, I may be biased. I really enjoyed this version--made with real black raspberries grown in Oregon's Willamette Valley. (The company cites today's flavor as their "signature" and "most beloved" flavor.)

Tart sweet, dark berry flavor (and lovely dark berry color) harmonized with a sweet creamy base (cream is the first ingredient listed) and dark chocolate chips that were dark enough to create a pleasing, satisfying contrast.

Ingredients: Cream, milk, cane sugar, black raspberry puree, chocolate chips (sugar, chocolate liquor processed with alkali, cocoa butter, expeller-pressed non-GMO soy oil, milk fat, soy lecithin, natural flavors), skim milk, eggs, carob bean gum, guar gum, citric acid.

Allergen-related information: "Contains milk, egg, and soy." "Gluten Free" and "Star D (dairy) Kosher Certified"


Bindi Gelato - Chocolate and Cream Swirl - Aug. 26, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Bindi Gelato 
Chocolate and Cream Swirl
Good - Good +
Weight: 3.2 oz. (90 g.) in 1 cup
Calories: 180 calories in 1 serving/cup
Cost: $2.99 for 1 container
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #4 of Cold Chocolate Theme Week, featuring frozen and refrigerated desserts and bars with chocolate.

Today's Chocolate and Cream Swirl (cup) was made in Italy* distributed by Bindi North America (Kearny, NJ). 

Bindi desserts had their start with the Bindi family in Italy in 1946; and were, at the very beginning, delivered by bicycle. Currently, they offer a line of different, Italian-inspired gelato flavors in single-serving cups. (The Limoncello flavor also looked good; however, I could not find other flavors in my local store.)

Today's sundae style gelato in a cup had a creamy and light (almost whipped) texture and mouthfeel--light contrasting visually with the dark, swirl(s) of dark chocolate. It was a nicely balanced blend and a convenient serving size for an frozen snack.

Ingredients: Rehydrated skim milk, sugar, water, butter, glucose-fructose syrup, cream glucose syrup, lactose, sorbitol, chocolate (sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, soy lecithin, natural vanilla flavoring), cocoa processed with alkali, milk proteins, modified starch, mono- and diglycerides, artificial flavorings, locust bean gum.

Allergen-related information: Contains milk and soy. May contain traces of eggs, wheat and tree nuts. (Note: contains artificial flavors.)

*Italco Food Products, Inc. owns the Bindi brand.

Kind - Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt Plant Based Creamy Frozen Dessert - Aug. 25, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Kind LLC
Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt Plant Based Creamy Frozen Dessert
Good +
Weight: 2/3 cup (124 g.) / 1 Pint (473 mL) in total container
Calories: 290 calories in 1 serving (2/3 cup) 
Cost: $7.99 for 1 Pint container
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #3 of Cold Chocolate Theme Week featuring frozen and refrigerated items with chocolate.

Today's Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt plant-based creamy frozen dessert was from Kind LLC (NYC, NY). 

Kind's line of frozen pint flavors has mirrored their earlier/original nut and fruit snack bar flavors. And the newer line(s) of plant-based frozen pints and frozen bars are true to these original snack bars in spirit and flavor.

Today's frozen dessert had a smooth texture and a generous helping of crunchy nut pieces (chopped almond). The dark chocolate chunks were relatively flavorful given the chocolate was made with alkalized cocoa (with dark, even slightly earthy notes). The base had a faint fruity note. (The first ingredient was pear juice.) 

My only quibble: the vegetable gums (see below in ingredients list), even if these gums did help ensure a smooth and ice-cream like texture.

Ingredients: Pear juice (from concentrate), water, almonds, sugar, dried tapioca syrup, coconut oil, chocolate processed with alkali, chicory root fiber, cocoa butter, sea salt, gum acacia, natural flavor, soy lecithin, carob bean gum, tara gum, guar gum, salt.

Allergen-related information: "Kind Frozen Pint ingredients do not include gluten. However, Kind Frozen Pints are made on shared equipment with products containing gluten ingredients."

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Negranti - Chocolate Sheep Milk Ice Cream - Aug. 24, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Negranti Creamery
Chocolate Sheep Milk Ice Cream
Good +
Weight: 1/2 cup (85 g.) / 1 Pint (473 mL) in total container
Calories: 140 calories in 1/2 cup serving  
Cost: $8.99 for 1 container
Purchased from: The Market at Edgewood, Palo Alto, CA 

Welcome to Day #2 of Cold Chocolate and Theme Week, featuring frozen, and refrigerated items with chocolate--a fitting good-bye to summer in late August.

Today's Chocolate Sheep Milk Ice Cream was hand-crafted by Negranti Creamery (Paso Robles, CA)--a family owned and operated ice cream maker on the Central Coast of California. (Alexis Negranti makes the recipes.)

This sheep milk ice cream had a smooth, rich almost nutty chocolate flavor. 

The number one reason why I liked this, aside from an enjoyable taste: there were no artificial ingredients, preservatives or vegetable gums; and it was gluten-free. Also, this ice cream contained the shortest ingredient list (see below) that I've encountered in the ice cream section, perhaps ever. 

Other benefits the company offered up: "1.) Lactose intolerant friendly, 2.) 45 percent higher in protein than cow's milk ice cream, 3.) Significantly lower in fat than traditional cow's milk ice cream and gelato, 4.) Free from egg, gum, artificial ingredients and preservatives, and 5.) Crafted with fresh, wholesome ingredients, always." 

Ingredients: Sheep milk, cane sugar, cocoa, tapioca starch, vanilla extract.

Allergen-related information: "Made on shared equipment; may contain nuts"




Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Green Girl Bakeshop - Reishi Chocolate with chocolate chip cookies - Aug. 23, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Green Girl Bakeshop
Reishi Chocolate with chocolate chip cookies
Good - Good +
Weight: 5 oz. (142 g.) in total package
Calories: 340 calories in 1 package/frozen cookie sandwich 
Cost: $4.49 (sale) for 1 package/frozen cookie sandwich
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA 

Welcome to Day #1 of Cold Chocolate Week, featuring frozen and refrigerated treats, snacks and bars with chocolate.

Today's Reishi Chocolate frozen plant-based, cookie sandwich was from Green Girl Bakeshop (San Leandro, CA). 

This chilly organic treat had light green, nut, coconut, and cookie notes, rich chocolate flavor with a fleeting earthy/loamy, slightly bitter note (that I'm assuming came from the reishi mushroom).

It was satisfying and sweet, but not too sweet. (It was sweetened with judicious amounts of coconut palm sugar, applesauce, chocolate chips, evaporated cane sugar in the chocolate chip cookies--and maple syrup in the chocolate frozen filling.) 

Note: Green Girl offers some of the few gluten free ice cream sandwich alternatives available in our area, unless you have time to make your own with gluten free cookies (that you may have to bake first) and your choice of milk/cream filling. So, I felt grateful to find these.

Ingredients: 1.) Cookie: organic cassava flour, organic coconut palm sugar, organic applesauce, organic chocolate chips (organic evaporated cane sugar, organic natural chocolate liquor (non-alcoholic), organic cocoa butter, organic vanilla powder), organic coconut oil, baking soda. 2.) Gelato: Organic coconut milk (organic coconut water, organic guar gum--less than 1%), organic maple syrup, organic cacao powder, organic reishi."

Allergen-related information: "Contains tree nuts (coconut)...produced in a facility that also processes tree nuts, peanuts, dairy, wheat, and soy."

Sunday, August 22, 2021

Macadamia Nuts Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate - Aug. 22, 2021

Chocolate of the Day  

Chocola
Macadamia Cubierta de Chocolate Oscuro Fino
(Macadamia Nuts Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate)
Good +
Weight: 2.03 oz. (57.5 g.) / 4.06 oz. (115 g.) in total package
Calories: 298 calories in 2 servings (1/2 package)
Cost: $9.49 for 1 package
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA 

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Guatemala Theme Week.

Today's Macadamia Cubierta de Chocolate Oscuro Fino (Macadamia (Nuts) Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate) were from Chocola (Guatemala City, Guatemala, S.A.). The finished product was imported into the U.S. by Global Support, LLC.

This offering was made using Rainforest Alliance Certified cacao grown in Guatemala, and macadamia nuts that were also from Guatemala.

The aroma notes included: fruit and green herb (light persimmon, lemon sorrel, sour grass (oxalis)) and dark chocolate.

The rich, dark 50% chocolate formed a smooth shiny coating around the macadamia nuts--that had authentic (alternating characteristic rich, sweet and bland) mac nut notes. It was nice to be able to taste these mild nuts, that can be easily overwhelmed by other stronger flavors.

Also in the flavor mix: fleeting earth/soil, nut/dark chocolate, fruit (very faint overripe blueberry), and very faint, almost smokey, floral vanilla notes. These 50% cacao Chocola nuts offered a more interesting tasting experience than similar chocolate covered nut offerings found on U.S. supermarket shelves. More flavor(s). More fun.

Ingredients: "Dark chocolate 50% (sugar, cocoa butter, cocoa liquor, soy lecithin (emulsifier), natural vanilla), macadamia, acacia (glazing agent)."

Allergen-related information: "Contains tree nuts, soy products and may contain traces of peanuts."


 

Saturday, August 21, 2021

Chocola - Pineapple Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate - Aug. 21, 2021

Chocolate of the Day  

Chocola
Pina Cubierta de Chocolate Oscuro Fino 
(Pineapple Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate)
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 4.06 oz. (115 g.) in total package
Calories: 420 calories in 1 package (4 servings)
Cost: $9.49 for 1 package
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA 

Welcome to Day #6 of Chocolate and Guatemala Theme Week.

Today's Pina Cubierta de Chocolate Oscuro Fino (Pineapple Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate) pieces were from Chocola (Guatemala City, Guatemala, S.A.).

This high-end snack had a transporting* aroma included tart, sweet fruit (pineapple, other tropical fruit (perhaps cacao fruit/pulp), persimmon), faint, freshly baked pineapple upside down vanilla cake, and chocolate notes.

The triangular flat pieces of pineapple had a nice soft chew and and plenty of naturally sweet-tart fruit flavor.

With many chocolate covered fruit rounds or pieces, the fruit center is little more than a sugar-saturated, fruit-flavored jell/gel. Thankfully, this was not the case today. Yes, this was a sweet treat, but the pineapple and 50% dark chocolate were well balanced and both offered plenty of intact, authentic and complementary flavor(s) and texture.

There was a fleeting earth note in this dark chocolate toward the end of a few bites, proving its flavor hadn't been fully tamed or "smoothed" out (via, e.g., the addition of alkalized cocoa powder, extra long roast and/or conch times, etc.). I appreciated having this "darker" note paired with such a sweet and powerful fruit.

Ingredients: "Dark chocolate 50% (sugar, cocoa butter, cacao liquor, soy lecithin (emulsifier), natural vanilla), dehydrated pineapple, gum arabic (glazing agent)."

Allergen-related information: "May contain traces of peanuts and/or tree nuts."

*During limited travel times in 2020-2021 (due to the Covid-19 pandemic), any visits to Hawaii or far-off, exotic lands (even other cities in the same state) have been curtailed. So, the culinary (virtual) travel adventures that chocolates from other countries offer have been doubly appreciated.


Friday, August 20, 2021

Chocola - Pumpkin Seeds Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate - Aug. 20, 2021

Chocolate of the Day  

Chocola
Pepitoria Cubierta de Chocolate Oscuro Fino
(Pepitas Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate)
Good +
Weight: 2.03 oz. (57.5 g.) / 4.06 oz. (115 g.) in total package
Calories: 272 calories in 2.03 oz. serving (1/2 package)
Cost: $9.49 for 1 package
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA 

Welcome to Day #5 of Chocolate and Guatemala Theme Week.

Today's Pumpkin Seeds Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate were made by Chocola (Guatemala City, Guatemala, S.A.). Both pumpkin seeds and cacao were from Guatemala.

These small, nubby, elliptically-shaped, chocolate-covered pieces had a balanced, sweet, green, seedy aroma and lightly fibrous seed texture with a soft crunch.

The sweet dark chocolate seeds had flavor notes that included: earth, nut, seed and roasted (faint coffee latte) notes. A tiny hint of vanilla added some warmth. A relatively thin chocolate coating enabled one to taste both the pumpkin seeds and chocolate.

Ingredients: Dark chocolate 50% (sugar, cocoa butter, cacao liquor, soy lecithin (emulsifier), natural vanilla, Guatemalan pumpkin seeds, gum arabic (glazing agent). 

Allergen-related information: "Contains tree nuts, soy products and may contain traces of peanuts."


Thursday, August 19, 2021

Fjak Sjokolade - 50% Milk Guatemala Licorice Root and Salt bar - Aug. 19, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Fjak Sjokolade
50% Melk Guatemala Lakrisrot and Salt 
(50% Milk Guatemala Liquorice/Licorice Root and Salt (bar))
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.87 oz. (53 g.) in 1 bar
Calories: 299 calories (estimate) in 1 bar
Cost: $9.50 + summer shipping for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #4 of Chocolate and Guatemala Theme Week.

Today's 50% Milk Guatemala Liquorice Root and Salt (bar) was made, from bean-to-bar by Fjak Sjokolade (Hangerfjord, Norway). Today's bar was part of the company's Nordic Collection, featuring local natural flavors.

The aroma of this bar had rich milk chocolate with subtle green (herb, grass) and savory (salty) notes. The base (Guatemalan) chocolate was a very good partner for the milk, licorice and salt, even if it was hard to detect what its inherent nature was.

The wonderful, authentic licorice root flavor appeared gradually until it permeated the senses--in a polite and sweet manner, like the arrival of a good friend around a cozy campfire. I could almost imagine myself in Norway. I am grateful for the gift of virtual travel today with this chocolate.

Licorice root can be a bit milder than its anise and fennel cousins; all three have some natural sweetness--and some tasters detect a slight herb-y bitter taste that's difficult to describe. (I like botanicals and sweet roots, so I can't pretend to be entirely objective here.) 

The salt helped complemented the sweetness/sugar.

The texture was rich and creamy with a very slight graininess/astringency.

The finish was pleasant with creamy milk, salt, licorice and sweet chocolate, arm-in-arm, skipping down the road together, until they disappeared over a hill and merged with the glow of a nice, warm sunset.

Note of caution: Like many other well-made dark milk chocolates with bit of salt or a savory inclusion, this bar was addictive. 

Ingredients: "Cocoa beans, cane sugar, milk powder, cocoa butter, liquorice root and North Sea salt."

Allergen-related information: "Processed in a facility that handles nuts, dairy and gluten."

 

La Feverie - Guatemala Asochivite 70% bar - Aug. 18, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

La Feverie 
(Hasnaa Chocolats)
Guatemala Asochivite  70% dark chocolate (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 2 oz. (56.6 g.) in total bar
Calories: 319 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $9.50 + summer shipping for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #3 of Chocolate and Guatemala Theme Week.

Today's La Faverie Guatemala Asochivite 70% bar was from Hasnaa Chocolats (Bordeaux, France)--the work of "chocolate artisan," Hasnaa Ferreira.

Aroma notes included, in order: short whiff of fresh yeast bread, followed by green/green floral, then a bit of tart lemony green oxalic acid (sorrel, oxalis, sour grass). fruit (goji berry, blackberry, red grape, plum), fleeting and very faint ambrosia (orange, pineapple) salad, and chocolate (brownie, leather).

Tasting the chocolate revealed more sweet, dark "chocolatey" flavor, and bright, tart fruit notes--the kind that are especially amplified with sugar. Also present: a barely there fruit astringency (think sweet persimmon) and a faint, balanced note of dairy cream and light earth toward the end.

This was a bright, fruity dark chocolate with layered complexity. 

The cacao used to handcraft this dark bar was from a remote, mountainous area of Guatemala (near the village of San Juan Chovite) (2017 Harvest), where many Maya farmers still harvest cacao from "wild" trees.

Hasnaa's tasting/flavour profile notes read: "Tangy notes of passion fruit, plum swirls and slightly cappucino finish."

Ingredients: Organic cacao beans and organic cane sugar.

Allergen-related information:  

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Fresco - Polochic Valley (Guatemala) Medium Roast 70% (bar) - Aug. 17, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Fresco Artisan Chocolate 
Polochic Valley Guatemala Medium Roast 70% (bar)
Good +
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.8 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 136.5 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $9.00 + summer shipping for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order 

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Guatemala.

Today's Polochic Valley (Guatemala) Medium Roast 70% (bar) was from Fresco Artisan Chocolate (Lynden, WA,). 

The company makes bean-to-bar, smaller batch chocolate with cacao carefully selected origins. The cacao used to make this bar was grown in the El Valle del Polochic (rio) (Polochic Valley), located in northeast Guatemala (SE side of the department* of Alta Verapaz). 

Every batch of cacao beans calls for tests and tweaks to obtain desired results. However, Fresco maker(s) often will carry this one step further, to make different chocolate bars with the same beans by varying how the beans are processed. And they typically share information such as various roast and conch choices made. 

For today's single origin Polochic Valley Guatemala bar (Batch 20-368), "Recipe 251" called for medium roast and long conch** times.

The Guatemalan cacao was slowly drum roasted for a "medium" length of time for a balanced, flavorful profile. And a long(er) conch time yielded "flavor peaks and valleys softened to a melodic harmony." 

The aroma of this bar included chocolate with tart (citrus/lemon), astringent green (oxalis, sorrel, sour grass); very faint, fleeting sweet, warm spice (lemon pepper cookie, ginger, vanilla); and barely there savory (salt; lemon herb caramel) notes.

How did it taste? The texture and melt were smooth. The perceived acidity was low to medium, the bitterness was relatively low, as was the astringency (despite the aroma that included oxalis and very faint cranberry lemon jam notes).

The flavor was more true chocolate (brownie cookie) than the aroma, as is often the case. The balanced chocolate also included versions of the aroma notes mentioned above. There was a wee bit of lemony herb oxalic acidity made sweet/tempered by the sugar. But, again the flavors were nicely balanced together, and the finish was relatively light, lingering and clean.

The maker's tasting notes included the following: "Our medium roast reveals notes of red fruit and caramel...Our long conche results in a mellow flavor with subtle earthy notes."

Ingredients: Cocoa beans, cane sugar, cocoa butter 

Allergen-related information: (None listed on packaging/label.) However, Fresco's website contained the following sentence: "Our chocolate is dairy free, soy free, nut free and gluten free."

*Guatemala is divided into 22 departments, which are roughly similar to states in the United States. Alta Verapaz is one of these departments. 

Farms in this area also grow sugar cane and oil palms. The country's largest agricultural exports have been coffee, sugar, bananas and beef. Despite the existence of many individual cacao farmers, Guatemalan cacao export volumes have been relatively low, less than 10% of the country's total.

**To conche, or conch, in chocolate making refers to the process of stirring/grinding/breaking down cocoa bean pieces into smooth chocolate. 

A conching machine is so named for its original spiral-shaped blade that resembled/resembles a "concha," the Spanish/Latin word for a type of sea shell and/or "conche," the French word for trough or shell. The machine uses motion/rotations and heat (friction) that results in the melding together of smaller and smaller particles of cocoa butter (fat portion of the bean) and cocoa solids. 

Longer conch times can result in smoother and more buttery chocolates. At the same time aeration is happening, which can result in the loss of certain flavors if the time is too long. So the time selected for this process needs to be carefully managed when making chocolate to arrive at the best possible compromise and the optimal texture and flavor profile for each batch of different cacao beans, each with slightly different characteristics.


Monday, August 16, 2021

Chocola - Trozos de Cacao Cubiertos de Chocolate Oscuro Fino - Aug. 16, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Chocola
Trozos de Cacao Cubiertos de Chocolate Oscuro Fino
(Pieces of Cacao (nibs) Covered in Fine Dark Chocolate)
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 1 oz. (28 g.) / 4.06 oz. (115 g.) in total package
Calories: 131 calories (per label) in 1 serving
Cost: $9.49 for 1 package
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #8 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week, and the first day (Day #1) of Chocolate and Guatemala Theme Week.

Today's Trozos de Cacao Cubiertas de Chocolate Oscuro Fino (cacao nibs covered in fine dark chocolate) were made with Guatemalan cacao and distributed by Productos Chocola S.A. (Guatemala City, Guatemala, Central America (C.A.)).*

Aroma and flavor notes for these diminutive, dark chocolate-covered nib pieces included dark fruit/berries (ripe blackberry, plum), port (wine), light maple syrup, sweet green/floral sap and faint vanilla and oxalis (sweet-lemony green herbs like sorrel, sour grass). And--especially after biting into them--dark chocolate flavor (with fleeting earth, blackberry and light wood and nut (hazelnut) notes).

These dark granules were flavorful and addicting all by themselves--a high-end, satisfying and compact snack. 

They would also make a delicious pairing with vanilla ice cream, or with a cheese plate, handful of roasted nuts and a small glass of fine dessert wine/port or sherry. They'd probably pair well with certain whiskeys as well. 

Ingredients: Dark chocolate 50% (sugar, cocoa butter, cacao liquor, soy lecithin (emulsifier), natural vanilla), cacao nibs, gum arabic (glazing agent).

Allergen-related information: "Contains tree nuts, soy products and may contain traces of peanuts."

*Today's Chocola dark chocolate covered cacao nibs were imported into the U.S. The importer/import contact listed on my package was Global Support, LLC (San Francisco, CA). 

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Trader Joe's - Organic Dark Chocolate Covered Whole Cocoa Beans - Aug. 15, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Trader Joe's
Organic Dark Chocolate Covered Whole Cocoa Beans 
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 2.12 oz. (60 g.) / 3.52 oz. (100 g.) in total package
Calories: 360 calories in 2 servings (approx. 2/3 package) 
Cost: $ missing information
Purchased from: Trader Joe's, San Carlos, CA

Welcome to Day #7 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week. Today's featured item used whole cocoa beans instead of nibs (the more commonly found pieces of cocoa beans). Whole beans are the most unprocessed form of 100% cacao one can enjoy.

Today's Organic Dark Chocolate Covered Whole Cocoa Beans were made in Italy for Trader Joe's (Monrovia, CA).

The aroma signaled interesting complexity to come, with faintly smokey, nutty, dark chocolate, fruity, with a very faint hint of maple/brown sugar and sweet green (sugar cane stalks).

The texture was a blend of contrasts. Crunchy, fresh and fibrous roasted (whole) cocoa beans were surrounded by a relatively thin layer of smooth, dark chocolate.

It was hard to confirm exactly which flavors were coming from the cocoa beans vs. the chocolate. However, the two together provided a range of nuanced, authentic flavors. Those who look at cacao as a food (and not just a sugary dessert item) will likely find these pieces very satisfying. 

The chocolate coating provided a bit of sweetness, but most of the taste (and texture) seemed to be coming from the cocoa beans (technically seeds); and flavor notes included slightly savory (salt), subtle toasted maize/corn and/or toasted cereal grain, roasted nut (chestnut, almond) and wood notes, as well as fleeting loamy soil, fermented milk and fruit (very faint/barely there dried, mild pineapple, plum and citrus), followed by fleeting but distinct honey and very faint roasted coffee/chicory. 

The overall taste was refreshingly and authentically complex and un-sweet (thank you!). Extra points for being certified Organic.

Ingredients: "Organic dark chocolate (organic cocoa mass, organic cocoa nibs, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter, organic soy lecithin (emulsifier), organic cocoa beans."

Allergen-related information: "Contains soy. May contain milk, almond, hazelnut, pistachio."

Saturday, August 14, 2021

Simon Coll Xocolaters - 99% Cacao Dark Chocolate (bar) - Aug. 14, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Simon Coll Xocolaters
99% Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Calories: 180 Calories: in 1/3 bar
Cost: $4.99 for 1 bar
Purchased at Nugget Markets, Tiburon, CA

Welcome to Day #6 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week.

Today's 99% Dark Chocolate (bar) was from Simon Coll Xocolaters (Barcelona, Spain). Yes, I realize 99% cacao is not 100%, but stick with me here. 

Aroma notes for this bar, in order of appearance: nut (peanut), sweet green (matcha green tea), light chocolate cookie, sweet and savory Japanese rice cracker and very faint malt, dark chocolate.

The texture had an even, pleasing creamy melt and mouthfeel.

And then we have the flavor. This 99% bar conjured up the singular notion of a dark, muscular jaguar, softly padding through a faintly earthy tropical forest with notes of fresh rain, red clay, and black soil. This was a tamed jaguar. Nothing scary happened (quite the contrary); but it was experienced with ultra-dark respect and a little trepidation at first, nonetheless.

The deep, dark roasted notes were well balanced, with a carefully managed bitterness and loamy earth. The even, lingering finish had balanced, roasted charcoal (with barely there steamed, sweet green leaf bundles with rice) notes. The jaguar was tracking traces of an ancient fire-breathing dragon and an invisible sugar pixie (1%). 

Made in Spain, this bar contained elements (and inspired analogies) from multiple continents. The flavor profile might be a bit roasty for some, but it will be a fun 100%-like ride for others --and enjoyed by those wanting an escape from sugar land. I enjoyed this bar.

Ingredients: "Chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, sugar. (Cocoa solids 99% minimum.) "
Cocoa mass, cocoa butter, sugar.

Allergen-related information: "May contain milk, nut and soya traces."



Friday, August 13, 2021

Ghirardelli Chocolate - 100% Cocoa Dutch Process (powder) - Aug. 13, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
100% Cocoa Dutch Process (powder)
Good - Good +
Weight: .21 oz. (6 g.) / 8 oz. (227 g.) in total package
Calories: 15 calories (estimate) in 1 Tbsp/TB serving
Cost: $6.49 for 1 package
Purchased from: Nugget Markets, Tiburon, CA 

Welcome to Day #5 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week.

Today's 100% Cocoa Dutch Process (powder) was from Ghirardelli Chocolate Company (San Leandro, CA).  

The "dutch process" generally uses an alkaline substance (higher on the pH scale) to reduce sharper, acidic flavor (lower on the pH scale). The alkali(ne) essentially neutralizes its acid opposite(s) and makes the cocoa more loveable--if you like brownies and cuddly, chocolate-y chocolate. (Many people prefer it over the less processed original or raw form.)

A small amount of cocoa powder rapidly transforms almost any item into a brownie-flavored dessert. I mixed 1 Tablespoon of today's cocoa powder into a bowl of mixed nuts (that were lightly coated in coconut oil). The powder instantly coated the nuts and turned the mixture into a rich, ebony-colored, nut brownie-flavored melange. (Success!)

Ingredients: "Cocoa - processed with alkali"

Allergen-related information: "May contain tree nuts, wheat, soy, milk and egg." 

 

Cru Chocolate - Roasted Cacao Nibs - Aug. 12, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Cru Chocolate
Roasted Cacao Nibs
Good + 
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2.5 oz. (70.7 g.) in total package
Calories: 140 calories (estimate) in 1 oz. (14.1 g.) serving
Cost: $5.99 for 1 package
Purchased from: Farm Fresh to You (add to local CSA box delivery)

Welcome to Day #4 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week.

Today's Roasted Cacao Nibs were made by Cru Chocolate (Roseville, CA).

The aroma notes wafting out of the opened pouch included fresh cacao, fresh baked chocolate brownies/dark chocolate cookies, subtle fruit (fresh banana), roasted nut, very faint green (nut, seed, floral, wood), and jaguar cacao. 

These fresh-tasting nibs had a light and crunchy texture.

Cacao nibs are versatile and I enjoyed these three ways: 1.) sprinkled on a green salad (with orange, fennel, artichoke and and goat cheese; 2.) on top of ice cream; and 3.) by themselves.

Maker's tasting notes: "Grown by small-holder family farms in Central America. Carefully fermented to achieve delicate flavors....Perfect to add into your smoothies, salads, omelets and great for baking." 

Ingredients: Roasted cacao nibs

Allergen-related information: (No information listed.)



Wednesday, August 11, 2021

TCHO Unsweetened Baking Chocolate 100% Cacao - Aug. 11, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

TCHO
Unsweetened Baking Chocolate 100% Cacao
Good +
Weight:  3 pieces - .53 oz. (15 g.) / 8 oz. (226 g.) in total package
Calories: 90 calories in 1 serving (3 pieces) 
Cost: $6.99 for 1 package
Purchased from: Nugget Markets, Tiburon, CA

Welcome to Day #3 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week.

Today's 100% Cacao Unsweetened Baking Chocolate (hexagon-shaped pieces) were from TCHO Ventures, Inc. (Berkeley, CA).

This chocolate (intended for baking and/or snacking) had a sweet aroma (faint shortbread cookie and graham cracker), that evolved into faint sweet green--and a few minutes later blossomed into ripe, concentrated fruit (plum, prunes and brown sugar) and dark chocolate.

The texture was thick and creamy, with a stiff nut butter mouthfeel with a luxe melt. And the bar had deep, true chocolate (unsweetened brownie, bittersweet morsels in dark chocolate chip cookies) flavor with balanced, medium acidity and bitterness. A light but lingering finish had bittersweet notes. There was a roasted flavor, but not "charcoal" (as can be the case with ultra-dark 100% chocolate).

Ingredients: Organic, Fair Trade cacao beans

Allergen-related information: "May contain traces of milk, soy, and tree nuts."


Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Ghirardelli - 100% Cacao Unsweetened Chocolate (bar) - Aug. 10, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
Premium Baking 100% Cacao Unsweetened Chocolate (bar)
Good +
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 4 oz. (113.5 g.) in total bar
Calories: 140 calories (per label) in 1/4 bar
Cost: $ missing information for 1 bar
Purchased from: missing information 

Welcome to Day #2 of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week.

Today's Premium Baking 100% Cacao Unsweetened Chocolate (bar) was from Ghirardelli Chocolate Company (San Leandro, CA). 

This bar had an aroma with deep chocolate and sweet green (green tea, green floral and fleeting green floral, homemade marshmallow, green nut/seed and jaguar cacao) notes. 

The flavor was similar to the aroma, but with much more pronounced deep, roasted dark chocolate (lightly singed fudge nut brownie) notes with a dense creamy (finely ground, thick 100% nut (fire roasted almond and peanut butter) texture and mouthfeel. 

The green notes made a subtle return in the light, lingering finish as did a fleeting faint brownie note.

In a word, this bar with well-managed bitterness and acidity was substantial. 

For those who enjoy ultra-dark chocolate, this chocolate is suitable for eating as well as baking (cakes, brownies, and traditional chocolate desserts). It also could be used to make a high-end, paleo fondue with nuts and fruits, an outer coating for dark truffles, or a melted drizzle over vanilla ice cream or sweeter desserts where you're looking for a bit of lively contrast.

Ingredients: "Unsweetened chocolate."

Allergen-related information: "May contain milk, soy, and tree nuts."


Monday, August 9, 2021

Lindt - Excellence 100% Cocoa Unsweetened Chocolate (bar) - Aug. 9, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Lindt and Sprungli
Excellence 100% Cocoa Unsweetened Chocolate (bar)
Good +
Weight: .85 oz. (25 g.) / 1.7 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 140 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $1.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to the first day of 100% Cacao and Nibs Theme Week, featuring chocolates with pure cacao flavor. 

Today's Unsweetened 100% Cocoa (bar) was distributed by Lindt and Sprungli (USA) Inc. (Stratham, NH).* This ultra-slim bar was packaged in a thin plastic tray (likely to help prevent breakage) and sealed in with a peel-off foil top layer.

Aroma: As with many unsweetened chocolate, the aroma of a 100% bar can be lighter/brighter/sweeter than--or simply at odds with--the taste. In this case a mindful sniff detected deep dark chocolate, subtle over-ripe fruit (prune, apricot, banana), light green (matcha green tea, green floral, fresh cut grass), fleeting caramel and marshmallow, and roasted cacao notes.

Texture: This well tempered bar had an even melt and predominantly creamy texture with some ultra-faint graininess and astringency (puckery dryness as in some red wines, persimmon and pomegranate).

Taste: Today's 100% chocolate was long on dark, deep roasted flavor with bold, well-managed bitterness and acidity. (The added cocoa powder was alkalized--a process designed to bring down sharper, acidic flavors.) 

Lindt's tasting notes read as follows: "100% reveals the strength and richness of cocoa beans. The flavour profile delivers a strong, aromatic cocoa taste complemented by a perfect balance of acidity, bitterness and fresh green notes..."

Ingredients: Chocolate, cocoa powder processed with alkali, cocoa butter

Allergen-related information: "May contain milk, soy and tree nuts."


Sunday, August 8, 2021

Dick Taylor - Chocolate Coated Almonds 65% Belize - Aug. 8, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Dick Taylor 
Chocolate Coated Almonds 65% Belize
Good ++
Weight: 2 oz. (57 g.) / 6 oz. (171 g.) in total container
Calories: 330 calories in 1 container
Cost: $12.99 for 1 container
Purchased from: Nugget Markets, Tiburon, CA

Welcome to Day #21 of Chocolate and Almonds Week(s).

Today's Chocolate Coated Almonds 65% Belize were made by Dick Taylor Craft Chocolate (Eureka, CA). 

This exquisitely packaged, high-end take on a chocolate covered classic used traditional coating pans to build up the layers of single origin 65% Belize chocolate coating around organic California almonds. 

Instead of a shiny, confectioners glaze top coat, these almonds were dusted with/in cocoa powder giving them a luxe, deep brown powdered velvet look. 

The aroma: malty, roasted almonds and rich, high-end dark chocolate milk/cocoa notes.

The Belize chocolate contributed a layered tasting experience not usually found in chocolate covered confections. The chocolate had balanced bittersweet, fruit (citrus, dark ripe berry), very faint earth notes that complemented the milder, rounder, nuttier, woodier, hand-roasted almonds--that had their chance to shine after the dark chocolate was chewed into and melted away.

These were carefully crafted, with a deftly balanced complexity. They weren't overly sweet (thank you), allowing quality ingredients to be fully enjoyed.

Ingredients: "Organic almonds, organic cacao, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter, organic cocoa powder"

Allergen-related information: "Contains almonds. Processed in a facility that also uses milk, tree nuts, wheat and peanuts."

Saturday, August 7, 2021

Wholesome Bakery - Fudge Brownie - Aug. 7, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Wholesome Bakery
Fudge Brownie
Good +
Weight: 2 oz. (57 g.) in one container/brownie
Calories: 160 calories in 1 brownie
Cost: $6.50 for 1 brownie
Purchased from: Zombierunner, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #20 of Chocolate and Almonds Theme Week(s).

Today's vegan and gluten-free Fudge Brownie was from Wholesome Bakery (San Francisco, CA). The women-owned bakery, founded by Mandy Harper in 2009, offers high-quality, allergen-friendly and plant-based bakery items.

This brownie was lower-glycemic (sweetened with organic coconut sugar) and was made with 74% dark chocolate, coconut milk and almonds (almond meal).

The paleo-friendly brownie was sweet, moist and dark chocolate-y. (The coconut flavor was very subtle.) The brownie managed to have, simultaneously, a soft semi-velvety and nutty texture and chew. It was very satisfying, and didn't leave me with a sugar buzz. (Thank you.) Although I did find myself wanting to eat another one. 

Ingredients: "Organic, fair trade 74% dark chocolate, coconut cream, raw almond meal, organic coconut sugar, tapioca flour, baking soda, cream of tarter, sea salt, pure vanilla extract."

Allergen-related information: "Made in a facility that works with nuts. Produced in a dedicated gluten free, vegan and soy free facility."


Friday, August 6, 2021

Siete Foods- Grain Free Mexican Chocolate Cookies (with almond flour) - Aug. 6, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Siete Foods
Grain Free Mexican Chocolate Cookies - made with almond flour
Good - Good +
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 4.5 oz. (127.8 g.) in total package of approx. 20 cookies
Calories: 150 calories in 5 cookies (1 serving)
Cost: $4.99 for 1 package
Purchased from: Sprouts Farmers Market, Mountain View, CA

Bienvenidos a (welcome to) Day #19 of Chocolate and Almonds Theme Week(s).

Today's Grain Free Mexican Chocolate Cookies (made with almond flour) were from Siete Family Foods, a Garza family business (based on seven (siete) family members), based in Austin, TX.

The small, light and crunchy cookies made with almond flour (and a blend of other gluten-free flours) had an inviting light cinnamon churro and chocolate (mild cocoa) aroma and flavor with a very slight earthy/mineral note. They tasted rich (fresh tortilla/cassava chips, corn flour cookies (coricos, champurradas) but were not at all oily or greasy. 

A hint of salt and a judicious amount of coconut sugar prevented them from being overly sweet. (Thank you.) 

In the future, I plan to make tiny ice cream sandwiches with these cookies (filled with homemade vanilla, Mexican chocolate, rose petal and/or vanilla with hibiscus and orange peel ice cream(s)).

Ingredients: "Grain free flour blend (almond flour, tapioca flour, arrowroot flour, chickpea flour, cassava flour), coconut oil, coconut sugar, avocado oil, alkalized cocoa powder, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, sea salt, baking soda, jasmine tea extract."

Allergy-related information: "Contains coconuts, almonds."

Thursday, August 5, 2021

Novi Cioccolato - Nero Nero (Extra Dark) 70% Cacao with Raspberry, Almonds (bar) - Aug. 5, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Novi Cioccolato
Nero Nero (Extra Dark) 70% Cacao with Raspberry, Almonds (bar)
Good - Good +
Weight: 1.3 oz. (37.5 g.) / 2.6 oz. (75 g.) in total bar
Calories: 221.2 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $ N/A - no information (free, from neighbor)
Purchased from: N/A - no information

Benvenutu a (welcome to) Day #18 of Chocolate and Almonds Week(s).

Today's Novi Cioccolato Nero Nero (Extra Dark) 70% Cacao with Raspberry, Almonds (bar) was from Elah Dufour S.p.A./Novi Ligure (AL) (Italy). 

This bar was a surprise find. It was courtesy of a neighbor who was moving (and left a give-away box). I find new chocolates in many places including: stores, online, gifts from friends, at chocolate events, and unexpected places as well.

The initial aroma of this chocolate was very raspberry forward (real raspberries but perhaps enhanced a bit with natural flavours), with fainter dark chocolate notes. 

The smooth dark chocolate base flavor was relatively mild initially, but shifted to a slightly darker/bolder profile with faint roasted, bittersweet earthy notes. The tiny almond bits were eclipsed by raspberry and chocolate ingredients, yet still helped round out/mellow fruit, cacao and sugar elements a bit.

Ingredients: "Cocoa mass, sugar, cocoa butter, fat-reduced cocoa, freeze-dried raspberries (3%), almonds (3%), natural flavours. Cocoa: 70% minimum in extra bitter chocolate."

Allergen-related information: Contains almonds. "May contain traces of milk, hazelnuts and soya."

 

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Fresh to Market - Almonds with sea salt Milk Chocolate (bar) - Aug. 4, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Fresh to Market 
(Nugget Market, Inc.)
Almonds with sea salt Milk Chocolate (bar)
Good +
Weight: 3 oz. (85 g.) in total bar
Calories: 450 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $3.99 (.50 off) for 1 bar
Purchased from: Nugget Markets, Tiburon, CA

Welcome to Day #17 of Chocolate and Almonds Theme Week(s). In truth, one could easily go a whole month featuring chocolate and almond items. It's a great and versatile pairing. 

Today's Fresh to Market Almonds with sea salt Milk Chocolate (bar) was distributed by family-owned Nugget Market, Inc. (Davis, CA) and carried in their chain of Nugget Markets.

This chocolate had a pleasing sweet milk chocolate and roasted nuts aroma. 
And smooth creamy milk chocolate surrounded crunchy, salty nut (almond) bits.

Nuts and salt helped level out the sugar buzz. The result was an addictive, but balanced blend of sweet and salty chocolate.

Ingredients: Milk chocolate (sugar, cocoa butter, chocolate liquor, whole milk powder, soy lecithin, vanilla flavor), roasted almond bits, sea salt.

Allergen-related information: "Contains milk, soy and almonds. May contain wheat, peanuts and other tree nuts."

Flour Craft Bakery - Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie - Aug. 3, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Flour Craft Bakery
Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie
Good - Good +
Weight: 4 oz. (112 g.) (estimate) in 1 cookie
Calories: 385 calories (estimate) in 1 cookie
Cost: $3.00 for 1 cookie
Purchased from: Flour Craft Bakery

Welcome to Day #16 of Chocolate and Almonds Theme Week(s).

Today's Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie was from Flour Craft Bakery (and Cafe) in Mill Valley, CA.

This generously-sized, gluten-free chocolate chip cookie had a slight saltiness, but not the full savory tang of many sourdough breads). The cookie had a satisfying, crunchy, semi-soft chew.

I sampled today's Flour Craft cookie with a handful of toasted almonds and with an Almond Ball from Health Lab (also gluten free, made with dates and almonds). 

Ingredients for Flour Craft chocolate chip cookie: unknown. Made with a gluten-free flour blend.




Monday, August 2, 2021

Coracao Chocolate - Berkeley Bars and Almond Butter Bars - Aug. 2, 2021

Chocolate(s) of the Day

Coracao Organic Chocolate

Berkeley Bars
Good +
Weight: 2 oz. (56 g.) in total package of 2 small bars
Calories: 340 calories in 1 small bar
Cost: $5.99 for 1 package of 2 small bars
Purchased from: Flour Craft Bakery/Cafe, Mill Valley, CA

Almond Butter Bars
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 2 oz. (56 g.) in total package of 2 small bars
Calories: 300 calories in 1 small bar
Cost: $5.99 for 1 package of 2 small bars
Purchased from: Flour Craft Bakery/Cafe, Mill Valley, CA

Welcome to Day #15 of Chocolate and Almonds Week(s). 

Today I sampled two different small bars from Coracao Organic Chocolate (Berkeley, CA). The company creates healthy chocolates using "certified organic cacao from biodynamic farms" and "farmers are paid Fair Trade wages or above." 

Berkeley Bars
The aroma of this chocolate bar included slight green floral, molasses/brown/maple sugar, tart green (lemon herbs like sorrel, sour grass/oxalis), very faint fruit (red apple, berry), nutty and very faint savory notes. 

There were two layers inside these Berkeley Bars: a soft (lucuma and maca) nougat layer on top and a caramely-crunchy nutty (with lightly salted almond) layer on the bottom pieces. And the entire bar was coated with 81% dark chocolate. 

Ingredients: Organic almonds, organic agave, organic cacao, organic cashew butter, organic coconut sugar, organic lucuma, organic yacon syrup, organic cocoa butter, Himalayan salt, organic maca and organic vanilla bean.

Allergen-related information: Contains almonds and cashews. Made in a factory processing other tree nuts. May contain pit or shell fragments.

Almond Butter Bars
The aroma of this small bar coffee toffee, followed by almond molasses brittle, sweet and slightly savory notes

The rich, ultra-dark (81% cacao) chocolate flavor had very faint earth, balanced light bitter and tart green (lemony herbs like sorrel, sour grass/oxalis) notes. The nutty notes (in the form of smooth substantial almond butter filling) showed up a few chews later.

Ingredients: Organic cacao, organic stone ground almond butter, organic coconut sugar, organic cacao butter, organic vanilla bean and Himalayan salt.

Allergen-related information: "Contains almonds. Made in a factory processing other tree nuts." (organic, vegan)

Sunday, August 1, 2021

Sprouts - Organic Dark Chocolate with Almonds and Sea Salt (bar) - Aug. 1, 2021

Chocolate of the Day

Sprouts 
Organic Dark Chocolate with Almonds and Sea Salt (bar) 
Good +
Weight: 1.5 oz. (42.5 g.) / 3 oz. (85 g.) in total bar
Calories: 240 calories in 1/2 bar 
Cost: $2.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Sprouts Farmers Market, Mountain View, CA

Welcome to Day #14 of Chocolate and Almonds Theme Week(s). 

Today's Organic Dark Chocolate with Almonds and Sea Salt (bar) was manufactured exclusively for Sprouts Farmers Market (a retail chain based in Phoenix, AZ).

The aroma notes included: subtle fruit (tart red apple, dried persimmon, faint lemon peel), tart green (sorrel, sour grass, oxalis) and bittersweet dark chocolate.

This bar had a fresh, sweet dark chocolate with hints of faint fruit (cherries with orange and a dollop of sour cream) and and the perfect amount of salt (enough to create layered flavor, but not too much). The nutty flavor note (tiny almond bits) showed up in the latter half and this flavor extended into the finish.

Ingredients: Organic cane sugar, organic cocoa mass, organic cocoa butter, organic almonds, sea salt.

Allergen-related information: Contains almonds. "May contain milk, hazelnuts and peanuts."

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