Personally, I think cocoa nibs are delicious. The texture is unique—crunchy yet tender, like a macadamia nut, with the mouth-cooling properties bestowed by the magical substance that is cocoa butter; and complex, with a bitter cocoa flavor.
The flavor takes a little getting used to, and there are certainly a wide range of qualities of nibs as there are with anything. If you're already a chocolate lover, chances are you'll be into nibs. But what do you do with them?
Turns out a heck of a lot! First there are the obvious things: using them as sprinkles on cupcakes or ice cream; mixing them into cookies like Dorie Greenspan's world peace cookies ; or tossing them into brittle instead of nuts. Simply candying them—coating them in caramelized sugar—is simple, and candied cocoa nibs make a delicious though somewhat addictive snack.
Candied cocoa nibs can also be used in baked goods I'd have no problem stirring them into a batch of granola , or enrobed in chocolate for an extra-decadent treat. But cocoa nibs have a savory side, too, and who better to write about it than pastry wizard and self-proclaimed chocolate freak David Lebovitz? He has a recipe for a gorgeous-looking shallot and beer marmalade , which includes a cocoa nibs addition.
I've never made this recipe although now I'm wondering why but it looks divine. He suggests pairing it with savories like fresh goat cheese, or as a side for a tagine. And Michael Chiarello did a Food Network show a while back that featured an entire dinner menu chock-full of chocolate, with nibs showing up in the salad. Cocoa nibs are also a great choice for a crust on something savory, like a duck breast; or even fried calamari.
Am I the only one who's getting hungry? Of course, if you're not feeling quite so adventurous, there are plenty of other, sweeter ways to have your nibs. Brooklyn-based NuNu Chocolates [now closed] made some delightful chocolate-covered nibs, which are a nice "starter" nib snack.
Additionally, population studies indicate that higher intake of flavonoid antioxidants, such as those found in cacao nibs, is associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, including ovarian and lung cancer 27 , Cacao nibs and other cocoa products may offer anti-inflammatory effects, boost your immune system, and protect against diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Cocoa beans contain the stimulants caffeine and theobromine.
These compounds provide some health benefits but can cause adverse effects when consumed in excess 29 , Therefore, eating an excessive amount of cacao nibs may cause side effects related to excess caffeine intake , including anxiety, jitteriness, and trouble sleeping.
Still, cacao nibs eaten in normal amounts are highly unlikely to cause these issues. Keep in mind that children and pregnant or breastfeeding women are more vulnerable to the effects of stimulants like caffeine. Additionally, there is some concern over the ingestion of cocoa products in late-stage pregnancy due to the constricting effects of cocoa antioxidants on a fetal blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus.
Therefore, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before eating cacao nibs 31 , Cacao nibs contain stimulants that may cause adverse effects if consumed in excess. Cacao nibs are substantially lower in sugar than other chocolate products and provide an array of powerful health benefits.
Still, keep in mind that cacao nibs have a rich flavor and much more bitter taste than even the darkest of chocolates , as they contain no added sweeteners. For this reason, sweetness may have to be adjusted when swapping regular chocolate for cacao nibs in recipes. As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy cacao nibs. Try experimenting with this cocoa product in your kitchen to find more unique and delicious uses for this highly nutritious ingredient.
Cacao nibs make an excellent addition to many dishes, including smoothies, baked goods, meat dishes, and beverages. Cocoa products like cacao nibs have been linked to reduced heart disease and diabetes risk, as well as other health benefits. Incorporating cacao nibs into a balanced diet is sure to boost health while satisfying your chocolate cravings.
This article tells you the difference…. Did you know chocolate is one of the most commonly craved foods in America? Here are five explanations for why you might be craving chocolate. Though it's most famous for its role in chocolate production, cocoa has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries.
Here are 11 health and…. There are hundreds of different types of dark chocolate. Read this guide to find the best types of dark chocolate to buy, as well as which to avoid. Sweets are tricky for those on a gluten-free diet, as many kinds contain glutenous ingredients.
This article tells you whether chocolate is…. Some types of chocolate, especially dark, naturally have caffeine…. We all have those hectic mornings. And on these mornings, eating a healthy breakfast often falls by the wayside. Researchers say eating dark chocolate can change your brain wave frequency, providing benefits in memory improvement and stress reduction.
Getting your meals delivered can save major time on meal prep. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Sprinkle them on top of yogurt for a little sweet crunch in your breakfast bowl or on top of a creamy dip to give it a sweeter bite. Or add them into the blender for a chocolate twist on your morning smoothie. For a pop of chocolate flavor and crunch in your granola, swap cocoa nibs in for a portion of the nuts in your favorite granola mix.
And for even more chocolate flavor, add in a spoonful of cocoa powder. Making caramelized nuts or praline to sprinkle on top of your dessert? This is the perfect place to add some cocoa nibs. Their deep dark color can pop against a light caramel and they add a rich, roasted bitterness that helps balance out sweetness. Cocoa nibs are also great mixed into roasted nut combos; try them mixed into this updated pecan pie that combines plenty of nuts and seeds.
Love caramelized nuts in your salad? This savory granola combines spices and seeds to add perfectly seasoned crunch to hearty greens and roasted veggies.
0コメント