Raw Truffle Making for Jenni Kayne

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Chocolate has a near-ancient history—some historians estimate that humans’ consumption of the cacao bean began around 2000 years ago, and some date its origins even further back than that. It’s hard to place exactly when chocolate was born, but it’s safe to say this has been the go-to sweet treat for, well, ever! Native to the deep tropical regions of Central and South America, the cacao tree, or Theobroma cacao (Latin translation: “food of the gods”) is a flowering plant that produces cacao seeds, which, when sun-dried and cold-pressed, results in raw chocolate. It’s been said that with minimal processing and intervention, raw chocolate preserves the vitamins, antioxidants and minerals naturally present in cacao.

This recipe from our friends at Women’s Heritage uses dates and dried currants instead of refined sugars to add a few more healthful benefits without sacrificing any of the rich satisfaction of a chocolatey treat. In fact, we think these substitutions make this treat even better. Emma Moore, resident chef at Women’s Heritage, told us that she’d been making these for her family for years: “Because selfishly, I wanted a sweet treat that I felt good giving our kids.” To that we say: there’s nothing selfish about indulging something sweetly nourishing, unless you save them all for yourself—in which case, we wouldn’t blame you. Plus, these truffles are dairy-free and vegan, so everyone can enjoy! XXJKE

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a double boiler, heat cocoa butter until almost melted (heat not to exceed 118 if still want it to be raw)
  2. Place cashews, pecans and cocoa butter in food processor and pulse until finely ground.
  3. Add cocoa powder, dates, currants and sea salt. Pulse until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and a chocolate dough forms.
  4. Roll into 1 ½ inch balls. Roll or sprinkle truffles in choice ingredient(s).
  5. Refrigerate for up to one hour.

Recipe Notes

  • 1 teaspoon maca powder-adaptogenic, positive effect on hormone balance, energy & aphrodisiac
  • 1 teaspoon bee pollen - immunity booster & antioxidant
  • 1 teaspoon baobab powder - energy release, immune function & healthy skin
  • 1 teaspoon goji berries - antioxidant & immune booster
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa nibs - magnesium, potassium &  increase mood
  • Pinch of chilli powder - antioxidant, energy booster & increase cognitive function
  • Pinch of turmeric - antioxidant & anti-inflammatory
  • Pinch of cardamon - reduces nausea, acidity, bloating, gas, loss of appetite & constipation
  • Pinch of cinnamon - lower blood sugar levels & reduce heart disease risk factors
  • Drop of vanilla or 1 vanilla bean, scraped - magnesium, potassium, calcium & aphrodisiac

*The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Roll in or sprinkle on ideas:

Roll in or sprinkle on ideas:

  • Cacao powder
  • Medicinal mushrooms
  • Maca powder
  • Rose petals
  • Lavender
  • Grated Lemon rind
  • Crushed seeds or nuts like pepitos, walnuts, almonds or hemp seeds
  • Foraged finds like shepards purse, chia sage seeds, etc.

Photos: Lauren Ross

     

    Food and DrinkWomen's Heritage