What Makes Dutch Process Cocoa Different?


Updated 03/07/12 4:20 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Dutch Process Cocoa Facts

Ever wondered how Dutch process cocoa differs from natural cocoa? We've got the answer: both types of cocoa powder are unsweetened, but Dutch process cocoa is treated with an alkalizing agent to neutralize its natural acidity. Created by Dutch chocolate maker Coenraad Johannes van Houten, the process results in not only lower acidity but also a milder, less bitter taste and a darker color. So Read more

Yummy Links: From Cocoa to Risotto


Updated 02/22/11 11:05 AM · Posted by YumSugar · 0 comments

Cocoa Prices Rise and Other Food News From the Web

Cocoa prices are on the rise. — The Feast Potato chip fun facts. — Endless Simmer Rachael Ray takes on the stuffy world of foodies. — Daily Beast Update your kitchen with a little wallpaper. — The Kitchn More videos with details on Grant Achatz's upcoming eateries. — Eater Speaking of Achatz, here's an interesting Q&A where he discusses what he learned at the French Laundry. Read more

Use Cocoa Powder For Dishes Both Sweet and Savory


Updated 11/08/10 3:53 PM · Posted by YumSugar · 3 comments

Gail Simmons Demonstrates How to Use Cocoa Powder Three Ways

Gail Simmons has a suggestion for you this holiday season: don't overlook the arsenal of versatile ingredients already in your pantry. In her latest episode of KitchenDaily's Pantry Project, the Top Chef: Just Desserts host shows how cocoa adds a depth of flavor to both traditional baked desserts and savory entrées. Using dark, acidic natural cocoa and the more alkaline Dutch process cocoa Read more

Food Section Sampler — Oct. 13, 2010


Updated 10/13/10 11:35 AM · Posted by YumSugar · 0 comments

Starbucks Focuses on the Art of the Drink, and More Food News For Oct. 13, 2010

Starbucks is asking baristas to forgo speed in favor of fresher, hotter drinks. — Wall Street Journal At $1,800 a pig, Spain's famed Jabuga ibérico ham doesn't come cheap, but it's now available in the US. — Los Angeles Times Culinary highlights from a cross-country barbecue road trip. — Chicago Tribune Flaky white hake is a suitable alternative to cod or halibut. — Boston Globe Thanks Read more

Monday's Leftovers: Cocoa-Roasted Turkey


Updated 02/08/12 10:48 AM · Posted by YumSugar · 3 comments

Cocoa Roasted Turkey Recipe From Rachael Ray

Still craving all things chocolate? You're in luck — the aphrodisiac takes on well with savory dishes like this recipe for cocoa-roasted turkey. For a Caribbean twist, rub leftover turkey thighs with a blend of cocoa and salt. The result is a crisp-skinned turkey imbued with a dark, roasted flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility: If you're feeling wary of peanuts these days, sub Read more

Celebrate National Cocoa Day


Updated 01/05/08 5:57 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 11 comments

Celebrate National Cocoa Day

According my pal PartySugar, today is National Cocoa Day, and that is one day I feel like celebrating. Cocoa is good for your brain! Yep, it promotes blood flow to your noggin by dilating your arteries. This arterial dilation is good for your heart too and maybe this is why I love a nice, hot cup of cocoa on a cold day. One of my favorite cocoas is Dark Chocolate Truffle Hot Cocoa by Godiva. Just Read more

Think You Know Cocoa?


Updated 12/13/07 4:48 PM · Posted by partysugar · 35 comments

Think You Know Cocoa?

Today is National Cocoa Day! To celebrate, you could whip yourself up a glass of hot cocoa, nibble on some cocoa beans, or take a quiz to see how much you know about cocoa. FitSugar would recommend taking the quiz because it's 100 percent fat and calorie free! Source Take the Quiz Read more

Chocolate is Even Better for Us


Updated 10/18/07 11:07 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 6 comments

Chocolate is Even Better for Us

OK. OK - You don't have to twist my arm. I'll eat dark chocolate already. Recent reseach has discovered yet another health benefit of chocolate. Right On!!! Based on a study where patients consumed 8 oz of cocoa (without sugar) daily for 6 weeks, researchers found the patients had increased blood flow. Good news for your heart and your taste buds. Cocoa and dark chocolate products are Read more

Health By Chocolate


Updated 06/02/07 9:24 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 11 comments

Health By Chocolate

I know when I have PMS, I crave sweet treats, particularly chocolate. I just found a chocolate bar that's specially formulated to soothe my PMS symptoms. Ecco Bella, known for its beauty products, is branching out and has created Read more

Drink Cocoa for Your Brain


Updated 02/23/07 8:12 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 9 comments

Drink Cocoa for Your Brain

There are so many reasons to enjoy a nice, hot mug of cocoa, and now there are even more. A recent study found that cocoa increases blood flow to the brain, which means it may be helpful in treating dementia since it is marked by decreased blood flow in the brain. Cocoa is high in the anti-oxidant known as flavanol, and flavanol promotes dilation of the arteries. Hence the increase in Read more