Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of dried Ningmeng (dried preserved lemon)
- 1 cup of pitted dates
- 1/2 cup of raw almonds
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil
- 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a food processor, pulse the dried Ningmeng, dates, almonds, shredded coconut, and cocoa powder until finely chopped and well combined.
2. Add in the honey and coconut oil, and pulse until the mixture starts to come together.
3. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, and press the mixture evenly into the dish.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring frequently until smooth.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the top of the Ningmeng mixture, and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate has hardened.
7. Once the bars are firm, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or bars.
8. Serve and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
5. Temperature:
- No baking required
Serving size:
- Makes 16 bars
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 170 per bar
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute the almonds for any other type of nut, such as cashews or walnuts.
- If you don't have dried Ningmeng, you can use dried apricots or figs instead.
- You can use agave nectar or maple syrup instead of honey.
- If you don't have coconut oil, you can use butter or ghee.
Variations:
- You can add in other ingredients such as chia seeds, hemp seeds, or dried cranberries.
- You can use white chocolate or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
- You can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet and salty flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pulse the ingredients in the food processor until they are finely chopped and well combined.
- Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the bars.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Storage instructions:
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- No reheating required.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the bars on a platter with some fresh fruit and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle some shredded coconut or chopped nuts on top of the bars.
Pairings:
- Serve the bars with a glass of cold almond milk or a cup of hot tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- These bars make a great snack on their own, but you can also serve them with some fresh fruit or a small salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more honey or coconut oil.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little more shredded coconut or cocoa powder.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before starting to prepare the recipe.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- Ningmeng is a traditional Chinese ingredient that is made by preserving lemons in salt and sugar.
Flavor profiles:
- These bars have a sweet and tangy flavor from the dried Ningmeng, and a rich chocolatey flavor from the cocoa powder and dark chocolate.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve these bars as a healthy snack or dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Chocolatey, Nutty, Fruity, Creamy