Dark Chocolate Fruit

So knowing this is February and that this recipe features dark chocolate, you could be forgiven for thinking I’m going to lead with all the wonderful things dark chocolate does for you. Well, think again! First, I’d like to talk about the one ingredient here that might raise an eyebrow or two-palm oil.

Because palm oil is largely made of saturated fat, it has an undeserved reputation as “bad,” but it’s anything but that. I’m a huge fan of palm oil, particularly Malaysian palm oil. It stands up to heat. It’s packed with antioxidants. And it’s also a good source of tocotrienols, members of the vitamin E family that help prevent brain cell death after a stroke, among other things. And I like Malaysian palm oil specifically because it’s sustainable. In fact, The Malaysian Palm Oil Council is one of the most environmentally conscientious organizations out there. So when you see palm oil in an ingredient list, don’t panic-it’s a great food.

Now on to the chocolate. Dark chocolate is one of the world’s healthiest foods. I even gave it a “star” in my book, The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, because it’s a standout even among other supremely healthy foods. High cocoa chocolate contains flavanols that have been found to lower blood pressure and protect the heart and brain. Cocoa is so good for you that it’s even sold in a few supplement forms now, including capsules.

In short, dark chocolate plus fruit equals a ton of antioxidants and health-protecting nutrients, making this recipe a truly guiltless indulgence!

Notes from: Chef Jeannette

Chocolate with winter fruits such as apples and pears taste great with an added pinch of fancy salt (try Himalayan pink crystals). The salt complements the flavors of the fruit and heightens the sweetness of the chocolate. Sprinkle a few crystals over the chocolate after dipping and before chilling. If you’re using fruits that oxidize when cut, including apples and pears, toss them with a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice before dipping to slow browning.

If you don’t have a double boiler, you can use a metal bowl set on top of the rim of a small saucepan of simmering water, or microwave the chocolate and palm shortening in a glass bowl in 20-second increments, stirring between each heating session.