Manitou Nu-Inn and Spa

Recipe of the Month: Chocolate Fondue For Health Happiness!

There is nothing more luxurious and romantic than dipping strawberries and other fruits into dark rich chocolate. An added bonus is that it has heart healthy benefits. Chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which several studies show help protect against heart disease, hight blood pressure, and several other health complaints. The fresh berries and fruit are also rich in antioxidants and other healthy nutrients. So indulge a little in this recipe for a truly enjoyable, healthy experience.

1) Wash and prepare your favorite fruit for dipping. Strawberries, blueberries, grapes, cherries, orange slices, apple slices, bannana slices, pineapple slices, etc. Whole strawberries or larger pieces are easy to work with but smaller pieces can be dipped with a fork. Have fun and experiment.

1) Take about 4 oz or more of dark bittersweet chocolate and chop into small pieces.

2) Place chocolate pieces in a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl over slightly simmering water. The bowl should not touch the water.

3) Slowly heat until the chocolate is smooth.

4) Remove from heat and place into a chocolate fondue pot. These usually have an electrically heated base or a candle to keep chocolate warm and soft. If you don't have a chocolate fondue pot, remove from the double boiler only enough chocolate to last about 5 minutes and place in a gently warmed bowl.

5) Serve warmed chocolate immediately with prepared fruit platter and enjoy dipping.

Note: When heating chocolate, be sure to do it slowly so as not to scorch or burn it. Do not cover it, which could cause steam to build up. Too much moisture will cause the chocolate to become a hard mass.

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