Chocolate

Chocolate

Confection Good year-round
Used in 6 of 45 cuisines (13%)

Processed cacao with hundreds of flavor compounds; bitter, fruity, nutty, and earthy all at once.

Where it comes from

Hailing from Mesoamerica, chocolate has a storied history dating back to the ancient Mayans and Aztecs, where it was revered as a divine beverage and a form of currency.

In the kitchen

Chocolate serves as the foundation for desserts, sauces, and confections, enhancing flavors, adding sweetness, and providing a rich, indulgent experience that satisfies the senses.

Nutrition (per 100g)

546kcalCal
4.9gProtein
31.0gFat
61.0gCarbs
7.0gFiber

Values are AI-estimated, not from a laboratory database

Pairs well with

Vanilla
Vanilla
Melt chocolate low and slow, stir in vanilla off-heat. Vanilla tames chocolate's edge, turning rich and mellow—like a hug for your taste buds.
Chili Pepper
Chili Pepper
Melt chocolate on low heat, then add a pinch of chili powder. The heat sharpens chocolate's sweetness, giving a warm kick—fruity chili echoes the cocoa's depth.
Mint
Mint
Melt chocolate, fold in fresh mint. Mint's coolness brightens chocolate's deep, sweet tones.
Almond
Almond
Melt chocolate and fold in roasted almonds. The smooth, rich chocolate hugs the crunchy nut for a classic treat.
Orange
Orange
Zest or juice, chocolate's richness meets orange's bright lift. Add zest early, juice late — zest infuses, juice freshens.
Nuts
Nuts
Melt chocolate and coat nuts. The smooth, rich chocolate contrasts with the crunch, creating a luxurious treat.
Pistachio
Pistachio
Melt chocolate and coat pistachios. The smooth, sweet layer complements the crunchy, earthy core.
whipped cream
whipped cream
Melted chocolate swirled into whipped cream. The chocolate's depth anchors the cream's airiness. Gently fold to keep it light.
Coffee
Coffee
Brew strong, mix in. Coffee deepens chocolate's richness, adding a subtle bitter edge. Perfect for cakes or mousse.
Banana
Banana
Melt chocolate and dip banana slices. The rich, bittersweet chocolate hardens, giving a satisfying crunch to the tender banana.
Peanut Butter
Peanut Butter
Melt together gently. Chocolate's deep sweetness complements peanut butter's nutty richness perfectly.
Meringue
Meringue
Drizzle melted chocolate over meringue for a rich, bittersweet contrast. Let it set for a crisp finish.
Raspberry
Raspberry
Melt chocolate gently, fold in raspberries. The rich, smooth chocolate contrasts with the tart, juicy burst.

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