Dark Chocolate: Rich, Smooth, Satisfying
I’ve been having fun tasting different kinds of dark chocolate for the past 8 months or so. Before then, I find it hard to believe that I didn’t even like dark chocolate! Now, it is by far the chocolate I prefer. Milk chocolate is just too sweet!
Dark chocolate is not only better for your health but a small amount of dark chocolate can be very satisfying. When I eat milk chocolate it seems like I set in motion a desire to have a little bit more that I just can’t stop. So if you are reading this and have not given dark chocolate a chance, please give it a try!
Studies have shown that the flavonoids in dark chocolate can decrease blood pressure and improve circulation. There is also some indication that the antioxidants present may reduce the presence of potential cancer-causing free radicals in the body.
I’ve jotted down some notes about the taste and mouth feel of some of the dark chocolate I’ve tried. Here’s what I’ve found:
My favorite dark chocolate is Ghiradelli - 72% Cacao. I find this brand to have an intense bittersweet flavor that is richly satisfying. It is also soft as silk.
Lindt with 70% cocoa is only slightly less intense in bittersweet flavor. This is definitely not a chocolate to bite into and chew. The enjoyment comes from letting the chocolate melt on your tongue. Like Ghiradelli it is also very smooth.
Endangered Species Chocolate, the Supreme Dark Chocolate with 72% Cocoa is smooth, rich, and satisfying. It is intense without being bitter. What I especially like is that 10% of the profits from this company are donated to support endangered species.
Dagoba Organic Chocolate with 72% cocoa - Mon Cherri. This is a dark chocolate with berries and vanilla added. I neglected to write down specifics about this chocolate. What I remember is that I liked the taste but it was slightly grainy.
Hershey Cocoa Reserve Extra Dark Chocolate with 65% cocoa. I found this to be a smooth chocolate but somewhat sweeter and not as intense or satisfying in chocolate flavor.
Dove Rich Dark Chocolate. I don’t remember if the cocoa content is noted on the package. I can’t imagine it being more than 60% or so because it is more like milk chocolate than dark chocolate. It is smooth and sweet lacking the rich satisfying chocolate flavor.
I’m looking forward to trying more dark chocolate flavors in the coming months. I’d love to hear from you and learn what you have tried and liked!
