Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
Special equipment needed:
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Sprinkle the dried cherries, sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and unsweetened coconut flakes over the chocolate, dividing them evenly among the spoonfuls.
5. Allow the chocolate to cool and harden at room temperature for about 1 hour.
6. Once the chocolate has hardened, break it into pieces and serve.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour (to cool and harden)
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- Makes about 12 pieces
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried cherries can be substituted with any other dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries.
- Sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and unsweetened coconut flakes can be substituted with any other nuts or seeds.
Variations:
- Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate for a sweet and salty flavor.
- Use different combinations of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a variety of flavors.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the chocolate is completely melted and smooth before spooning it onto the parchment paper.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to make even-sized spoonfuls of chocolate.
- Don't overcrowd the toppings on the chocolate, as it may make it difficult to break into pieces once it has hardened.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- Not applicable.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a platter or in a bowl for guests to enjoy as a snack or dessert.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a sophisticated dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
- Not applicable.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chocolate doesn't harden properly, it may be due to the temperature of the room. Try placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help the chocolate harden.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when handling the ingredients.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting the chocolate.
Food history:
- Mendiant is a traditional French confection made with chocolate and nuts or dried fruit.
Flavor profiles:
- Rich, dark chocolate with a sweet and tart flavor from the dried cherries, and a crunchy texture from the nuts and seeds.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack at a party or gathering.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Occassion: N/A
Region: French
Taste: Rich, Sweet, Fruity, Chocolatey