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Archive for category chocolate

Fun, New Product

Jun 28

Posted by admin in chocolate, lifestyle, news

Every so often something fun and almost unimaginable comes along. Sure you can ask, why? Why do we need it? How is it life-changing? OK, maybe none of these questions fit, but here’s something to enjoy.

How about a one-calorie chocolate you inhale. Yes, merely inhale: Make that Le Whif, a small tube that lets you literally breathe chocolate into your mouth. You even have a choice of flavors: pure chocolate, raspberry, and mint. OK, now the really big news. Yes, chocolate is of special interest, but what about coffee: Le Whif Coffee, a breathable coffee powder with the equivalent caffeine as from an espresso or closer to a double may solve those times when you want a spot of coffee but don’t have time to make one!whifcafe53

Is either product as tasty as having a piece of chocolate or holding a cup of espresso? No, of course not. It’s more like a party trick. Something fun to savor without worrying about a messy cup clean-up or chocolate bar stickiness.

These lipstick-like inhalers do the trick and demonstrate what happens when you combine the talents of David Edwards, a professor of biomedical engineering at Harvard, with design engineers:  You get a good-looking product that uses particle engineering. This product is part of his artscience labs where creativity has taken on an exciting definition. Pick a flavor, choose a tube, and enjoy.

Take a breather has a wonderful new meaning!

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Health Food/Food for Health

May 11

Posted by admin in chocolate, health, news

I love days when everything in the health news department affirms much of my thinking. Today was certainly one of those days. Here are three beauties to ponder:

–Coffee. I am always on the lookout for the latest positive news about coffee and its potential health benefits. A meta analysis was conducted by researchers at Harvard’s School of Public Health examining over 700,000 people who are coffee drinkers. They found that having more than six, yes, six 8-oz cups of coffee daily, did not boost the likelihood of getting colon cancer. They found the same effect from soda drinking, but we need to think about the sugar-laden drinks as causing other problems such as obesity. Now the tea drinkers did not receive as big a boost in the clean health department. The jury is still a little unclear on this one. Coffee and soda drinks did not yield an increase in colon cancer.

–Dark chocolate. As readers of this blog know, I have a special warm spot for news about dark chocolate. Today’s report from Johns Hopkins University finds that a compound in dark chocolate may protect the brain after a stroke by shielding the nerves from further damage. Researchers hope that this particular property may someday be used to protect people against strokes. So a simple translation means eat and enjoy dark chocolate while at the same time you are insulating yourself from the dangers of getting a stroke. We’ve recognized the heart healthy chocolate benefits so this further validates additional benefit from a little sweet.see's

–Vitamin D. So much has been written about the vitamins lately and Vitamin D was last year’s attention-grabbing darling as so many people were all of a sudden diagnosed with a D deficiency. Could it be that we are so dedicated to our sunscreen regimen that the sun has no chance to give us its beneficial D attributes? Now that millions have been told to take Vitamin D, this particular study from the Cleveland Clinic says the optimal time to take this vitamin is with your biggest meal of the day. Figure out that simple calculation and pop your D to protect yourself. It will make a major difference.

Keep in mind that this week, May 9-15, is Food Allergy Awareness Week.

Nothing complex about any of these reports, but they are all simple information solutions to improve our overall health.

Settle in with a hot brew and a piece of wonderful dark chocolate, and don’t forget to include your D with whatever meal has the most calories. We can enjoy ourselves and impact our health.

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Is Chocolate the Cure?

Apr 27

Posted by admin in chocolate, news

Sometimes a study comes out that leaves one with the question: What is the cause and the effect? That sentiment is definitely true with the latest chocolate study. They studied the relationship between chocolate and depression. Are those who are depressed more likely to consume more chocolate or does chocolate consumption contribute to depression?

It doesn’t take too long to scan thru my archives to see how I feel about chocolate. Yes, I enjoy chocolate, especially dark chocolate, for its taste and its health benefits. I know plenty of people who have a mini square as a dessert and are good to go. They are not solving issues of depression; rather treating themselves to a taste they enjoy and appreciate. The mini-square bars have had their own revolution of late as consumer check-out lanes at markets are often filled with the little bites of pleasure. Hey, they don’t cost that much. It’s a simple, satisfying reward. After all, we are the grab-and- go society and what could be better at instant gratification than the mini!51u2Li81GxL._SL500_SS100_

Now the depression issue. Which came first the chicken or the egg? If you’re depressed, a little bite of chocolate or many such bites may help. Assume you are doing something more medically sound for the depression anyway so this is just a mini stop. If you are not depressed, doubt how chocolate could cause it. Wait, maybe if you take in too much chocolate, you’ll gain weight and then become depressed. Apples and oranges.

Different issues. Go for the little square. It won’t hurt.

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Let’s Dine: New York City Edition–Under the High Line

Apr 18

Posted by admin in chocolate, dining out, travel

As the weather has become more friend than foe, it’s time to join the people walking the High Line. Not quite the Champs Elysee, but the stroll has its own magical air with stops galore to soak up the local meatpacking district vibe. One of its extra special charms are the numerous places to sit and soak up the river views. Flowers and gardens are well tended, and the whole atmosphere makes for an unexpected, pleasurable NY outing! As for dining, there are a full range of options from the early neighborhood pioneers such as Pastis to the newer, more High Line-centered spots.

Try the Standard Grill–that’s a joke. Its popularity preceded its opening, and now diners and hipsters are willing to wait it out or sit in the Biergarten and enjoy being in a large space with plenty of room to party. Dinner reservations in the restaurant itself are hard to get–try 3 weeks a but there’s always the oft chance that someone didn’t show or that you’ll be just as happy at the bar. Try it. Drinks, dining, and vibe: All winners here.

If its nearby Mexican cuisine you’re after then Los Dados stands ready to make your guacamole tableside so you can truly enjoy the fresh tastes and beautiful color of a perfectly ripe avocado. Don’t forget a selection from the Margarita menu which intrigues with its cucumber or blueberry options. Rumor has it that htis restaurant’s increased popularity is directly related to its location across the street from the beginning of the High Line! Makes sense to me.

Thai more your palate pleaser, then head to Sea Thai Restaurant for first-rate Pad Thai and a long list of luscious appetizers and numerous vegetarian options.

As the burger popularity spreads into every neighborhood, this area does not want to be excluded. The latest BR Guest enterprise, Bill’s Bar & Burger is a no-nonsense operation with the real McCoy and its accompanying toppings. Start with the milk shake, and you’ll want to be a regular. Good, immediate food vibe that gets you back into the neighborhood without undue delay.

As you walk off your meal, there are a few places to hop off and see life under the High Line. One major player is Chelsea Market. OK, I know the Market has numerous food selections including excellent sushi at The Lobster Place and unbelievable chocolate choices at Jacques Torres (the fresh Squeezed Lemon is an instant winner), but it’s also a fun place to walk through and explore the various food stalls and talk with the purveyors. A great take-home purchase stop, The Nut Box, will wow you with their delicious dried fruit tastes; try the kiwi, mango, or pineapple slices. You’ll be pleased.pineapple

Time to get back on the High Line.

This is a food blog so lots of foods to digest. Enjoy the walk.

Bon appetit!

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Food News to Use

Feb 7

Posted by admin in champagne, chocolate, health

After this interminable weekend of never-ending snow, there are still so many loose ends of information. Here are some thoughts to ponder and facts to know.

With the renewed scare and emphasis on BPA and the continual cry that plastic bottles harm our environment, there is some good news. Several bottled waters now use less plastic than they did even a few years ago. Dasani from Coke is testing a bottle made from more plant materials, and Aquafina (Pepsi) has dropped its plastic use by over 50% in the past 8 years. The same is true for the popular eco-shaped holder bottle from Nestle which has reduced its plastic content by 1/4 since it was originally launched in ‘07. Less is good.

If you’ve been wondering how healthy hot chocolate is as you’ve been consuming it with great relish during this especially cold winter, there’s good news. Nestle celebrates the Groundhog’s prediction of 6 continuing weeks of winter by introducing four new flavors of hot chocolate that have less sugar and are supplemented with nutrients. Hot chocolate drinks: No problem.darkcocoa

Fish oil again makes headlines with the newest study from Austria pointing out its potential in staving off schizophrenia in young people who already exhibit a degree of mental illness. Researchers believe that the fatty acids in fish oil help repair brain cells. This type of report hopefully will encourage other mental health researchers to examine the potential benefits from fish oil, a product that has made heart-healthy headlines for years!

Another hopeful glimmer of health news comes from a study of acai berries. The study shows that this berry, which has made major beverage inroads, will lessen some signs of aging and counteract many of the detrimental factors from high amounts of fats in our diets.

As we continue to search out more organic products, a disturbing report from the USDA found that fewer than 1 percent of all American farms are organic. An initial roadblock for many farmers is the necessary certification procedures, costs, and requirements of converting the land to certified organic. Hopefully, there is money in the Ag Dept budget to increase the number of farms to meet the growing interest as this small percentage manages to generate over $3 billion in sales. That certainly demonstrates support! Consumers feel confident with organic foods.

Good news for restaurants with the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday. Several market research studies found that restaurants will benefit from the double positive: The holiday falls on a Sunday and is part of a three-day weekend. Let me add another factor: Cabin Fever. The East Coast has been hit by multiple weekend snow storms that have shut down many restaurants and made major roads impassable. Let’s celebrate next weekend as a dining out event! Reservations now.

Besides restaurants coaxing you out for V-Day, there are no shortage of new chocolate products to sweeten the deal. Don’t forget a sparkler or go for a true Champagne. Plenty of choices. Grocers are actively pursuing those who prefer the quiet luxury of a special home-cooked meal. They can meet you halfway by their large selection of prepared foods to help you lessen your kitchen time.

Eat healthy; dine well.

Dig out.

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February Food Holidays

Jan 30

Posted by admin in champagne, chocolate, lifestyle

This year the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, the Year of the Tiger, falls on February 14. Does that date ring a bell, one that starts your heart a quiver or makes you panic that you haven’t realized we close out the month of  January this weekend? You could combine the two holidays with a night out at a Chinese restaurant on Valentine’s Day, or…

The list of possibilities to make this fun day, this year’s Valentine’s Day, extra tasty, after all this is a food blog, keeps on multiplying. No matter what last year was like; this is a new decade. Move on.

It may be too late to get personalized chocolate bars, but there are no shortage of Sweetheart candy messages. If it’s ice cream treats you covet, then Maggie Moo’s has two options to suggest: Pink Champagne Sorbet or a Dream Cake for two. That’s a small-sized cake of strawberry ice cream drizzled with chocolate ganache and topped with a chocolate covered strawberry.

What is it about strawberries and chocolate dips anyway? Just walking past Godiva windows should convince you that they have the market on the biggest berries out there. Yes, they are beautifully covered in chocolate!

Dairy Queen changes its cake shapes for the month of February. Not a round but a heart-shaped ice cream treat (chocolate soft serve topped with crunchy chocolate cookies pieces and then layered with vanilla soft serve). They also feature the Midnight Truffle Blizzard (chocolate truffle pieces, dark cocoa fudge and vanilla soft serve).

If you want more than just dessert, then restaurants have you covered with no shortage of options for special Valentine’s Day (evening) dinners. Prix-fixe menus are all the rage. Plenty of people will tell you that dining out that evening is a semi-hectic experience, but if you’re curious about its popularity, look at all the restaurants normally closed for Sunday dinner offering special dining packages. A great source for info is Open Table. Better hurry and reserve if dining out is your goal.

If you purchase by the 14th, you can extend the heart-shaped dining with Krispy Kreme’s assortment of heart and chocolate doughnuts, including the chocolate-iced heart doughnut with red drizzle. If you buy a dozen, they have a treat for you: “A Share the Love” card with a sweet surprise.

No one wants to be left out of this marketing maze.

Dining-in works, too. So many wonderful recipe possibilities and items from Sunday farm markets–what’s redder than a beet?

Don’t forget champagne!CHAMP_VEU12

Ok.

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Love is in the Air: One Month Warning

Jan 14

Posted by admin in chocolate, coffee, wine

At least merchants who believe in fairy tales have their windows and aisles all gussied up for an event that is four weeks from today. OK, don’t panic. The all-American lovefest, commonly known as Valentine’s Day, has become a major marketing opportunity for retail, grocers, and restaurants. Also anybody else you can think of, like those little Girl Scouts who are already out hawking their yummy cookies.

Besides the giant heart-shaped boxes of candy, this is the year you might consider designing your own specialized candy bar for your love. The German company Chocri has figured out that Americans, too, have a sweet tooth and are offering us the opportunity to personalize a chocolate gift with Fair Trade, organic, Belgium chocolate. This has real possibilities, especially the Marzipan rose!marzipan

There’s also time to go the personalized M&M route, and the almost limitless array of other candies already dolled up in special V-Day boxes. Sweet choices.

Besides chocolate, which I have few complaints about unless it is milk chocolate rather than higher concentrations of cocoa, there are other wonderful food and beverage options. How about coffee or tea? Plenty of those already packaged up and ready to go. Don’t forget wine–so many choices. So many winning opportunities: Maybe this is the time of the year to think of a wine club, a lovely possibility!

Or just purchase a special wine for the final touch to a beautiful evening. How about a Late Harvest Riesling or a true Ice Wine to warm your spirit.

So many wonderful food choices for a special Valentine’s Day.

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Is It Safe to Drink 50 Glasses of Wine?

Dec 1

Posted by admin in beverages, chocolate

That’s the question I have to ask myself after hearing about the newest nutrition bar. Yes, it’s great to find a product with only 190 calories. Love the fact that it’s marketed as a luxury nutrition bar. That’s a new branding category, I think. Another positive: High in fiber and loaded with seven super fruits such as pomegranate. Getting me excited.

Am a little flummoxed by the quantity claim that the WineTime Bar contains as much resveratrol as 50 glasses of red wine! Now you understand my problem. Love the health benefits from resveratrol and the fact that the company sourced the Rhone reds, but am just a little confused by how much is too much.

Should we be drinking 50 glasses of red wine at a time? Should one bar which we will willingly enjoy for its fiber-rich, low-calorie, dark chocolate taste be a substitute for those many enjoyable sips of dinner reds? There’s something fundamentally wrong with this picture.bars-small

Who is doing the science to question how much resveratrol we should consume in one sitting? How much is too much? How many bars should we have daily? Three? 150 glasses?

Those who jumped on the early bandwagon and consume resveratrol pills may want to enjoy a bar instead. A glass of water and a pill is one approach, but a chocolate bar certainly sounds more appealing. We just have a few unanswered questions.

Personally, I prefer to have my cake and eat it, too, or in this case my chosen glass of red with a small bar of 71% dark chocolate and then my double espresso!

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Sweeeeeet

Oct 22

Posted by admin in chocolate, news

Love a day when most of the news gives into our sweet tooth. It’s fitting that the mood of unemployment and layoffs has a sweet sidebar. We want to take care of ourselves and soothe our worries. What better solution than a sweet snack or dessert? I’m clueless.

First off the Mars Snackfood folks have big plans to soften the blow. Consumers talked; the company listened, and many of the treats from bygone years are back, or will be real soon. Here are a few taste-teasers: I’m talking about the 3 Musketeers Truffle Crisp Bar (at just 170 calories, but not available til January), and the Milky Way Simply Caramel Bar (also January). Then the winning cherry chocolate combo, and my personal addiction in this line: M&M’s Wildly Cherry Chocolate Candies (December). Now we’re talkingmmcandy good news.

Wait, there’s more. You know how difficult it is to figure out if you want a scoop or a soft-serve. That’s no longer a problem. Baskin-Robbins has solved the decision-making with its new Double Header Cone.Price is a sweet treat, too, as most stores will sell this for $2.22. The biggest problem now is figuring out the combo you like best! Not too serious.

This is what I call a good news day!

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Sweet Tooth Saves Lives

Sep 18

Posted by admin in chocolate, health, news

Yes, it’s time to talk about chocolate again. Why not? The research (”A Heart Benefit for Chocolate”) just gets more appetizing. These results come after an 8-year study. Another New York Timesleonidas-chocolate_2072_4679606 reporter chimed in and wrote, “Chocolate as Health Food.” Now we’re talking. It doesn’t take too much searching in my blog to uncover my sweet tooth and my special area of expertise: Dark Chocolate!

Sure there are numerous obesity studies that want to slam into the chocolate debate and turn it into a debacle, but I stand firm in my belief that the healing powers of chocolate, whether after a heart attack or in general, are worth further research. This study spells it out simply: “The more chocolate consumed, the lower the risk for death.” That’s an impressive piece of information.

Of course, other factors play a significant role, but the flavonoid discussion is far from over. We’re not talking about overindulgence; rather a simple pleasure. Eating a box of anything or consuming a bag of scooped sweets will not stop additional factors that could be in play and create a less heart-healthy situation.

In the meantime, exercise, watch your cholesterol, and enjoy the continuing chocolate research.

Go for the gold.

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