Be Good to Your Heart with…Chocolate

by Califia Suntree

The day scientists prove that a bacon cheeseburger, fries, and a milkshake make a lifesaving power-meal may never come. But they did recently add chocolate, everybody’s favorite “vice,” to the growing list of who-knew health foods—right next to red wine, and to a chorus of “j’ai-told-vous-so”s.

As it turns out, chocolate not only makes the heart grow fonder, but also makes it grow stronger. Like red wine, tea, and fruits and vegetables, dark chocolate is high in flavanols, which, according to the American Heart Association, lower blood pressure as well as bad (LDL) cholesterol levels.

What better way to express your love than with a chocolate-rich feast for two? Here his how to make it happen.

Super-Simple Chicken Mole
This classic Mexican dish gets its subtle sweetness and richness from a dose of dark chocolate. While traditional moles have upwards of 20 ingredients, this one is streamlined—but just as satisfying. For best flavor, make it the night before and reheat right before serving.

3 chicken breasts with bones and skin, about 1 1/2 pounds
4 garlic cloves
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup flour
2 tablespoons chile powder
1/4 cup canned enchilada sauce (Old El Paso, for instance)
1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter (no sugar added)
1/4 cup grated dark chocolate
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon salt
2 cups cooked rice

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