Sunday, July 14, 2013

Raw Dark Chocolate and Cherry Tartlets *nut free*


I already mentioned that my favourite summer fruits are cherries. I often eat a large bowl of them, just as they are, as lunch, dinner or snack. I enjoy them so much that I wanted to include them in some dessert recipe and idea of combination with raw cocoa sounded just great to my ears. 


I know that there are many rawfoodists that claim that cocoa is stimulant, contains caffein and shouldn't be eaten. But it also contains lots of antioxidants, vitamins, healthy fats and protein. Eating in moderation shouldn't be harmful then. I use raw cocoa powder in occasional recipes and I enjoy it every time. Cocoa is not my daily treat though. 


If you're concerned about using cocoa in your recipes, you can always substitute it with raw carob powder, also very valuable and nutritious food. I tried carob in many recipes and despite it's interesting cocoa like taste, I still prefer taste of real raw cocoa powder. In combination with cherries, it's real sweet treat! Perfect for sharing with your loved ones.


Raw Dark Chocolate and Cherry Tartlets

makes two tartlets

Crust:
1 cup dried figs
1/4 cup dates, medjool, pitted
2 Tbsp raw cocoa powder
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Filling:
1 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted
1/2 cup dates, medjool, pitted
2 Tbsp raw cocoa powder

1 cup whole fresh cherries for topping.


To make the crust: Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until you get a firm dough. Press into two lined tart tins and place in freezer for about an hour.
To make the filling: Place all ingredients in a high speed blender and pulse until smooth.
Assembly: Take the crusts gently out of the tins and fill with the filling. Top with fresh cherries and serve!


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