Cacao Nibs

Cacao Nibs are something I am just recently discovering.  They are rich, intense and slightly bitter and have all of the advantages of chocolate--lots of antioxidants, magnesium and iron--without having any of the sugar.  These amazing little treats are bits of cacao beans that have been separated from their husks and come in both roasted and raw varieties.  You can use them just like chocolate chips in granola; stir them into your ice cream or even peanut butter; sprinkle them on oatmeal or caramel popcorn or add them to your diet with the following yummy tips.

Crave-Buster Candy: Grind cacao nibs in a coffee grinder; melt honey and coconut oil in a small saucepan; then stir in both ground and whole cacao nibs. Add walnuts, stir to coat; and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.  Cool and then break into large pieces.

Sugar-Free Smoothie: In a blender combine almond milk, cacao needs, chia seeds and a frozen banana; puree until thick and creamy.

Easy Mole: Mix dried chipotle powder, coriander, cinnamon, garlic powder, black pepper, salt and a pinch of ground clove with ground cacao nibs. Add sesame seeds, olive oil, and tomato sauce and simmer until think for a rich mole sauce.

Breakfast Treat: Stir whole and ground cacao nibs and minced pecans into pancake batter; cook; and top with cacao nibs and maple syrup.

Seductive Dessert: Combine coconut milk, vanilla extract, honey, cacao nibs, and cornstarch in a small saucepan, and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Pour into small cups or ramekins and chill until firm. Sprinkle with cacao nibs before serving.

I haven't been able to find cacao nibs in most grocery stores but have seen them in stores like Sprouts or Whole Foods.  Give them a try, they are a tasty little indulgent but healthy treat!