Easy Vegan Chocolate

When it comes to food, what's your biggest weakness? If you're anything like us, then the answer is most certainly chocolate! Of course, this can be something of a dilemma for those who are changing their diet, whether you're cutting out dairy, processed sugars, or simply watching your weight. Luckily, we have the perfect solution to help you curb those chocolatey cravings, in a way that's good for both your body and the planet! 

This easy vegan chocolate recipe can be made with only 3 simple ingredients, with the option to add additional flavours and textures of your choice, while being mindful to keep these healthy. Using plain cocoa powder, the recipe eliminates the added dairy found in most chocolate bars, making it a great option for vegans, as well as those who are intolerant. It also swaps refined sugar for healthier alternatives, which makes it perfect for those who are looking to reduce their intake. It manages to do all this, whilst also being a deliciously rich and tasty treat, which is ideal for those who are struggling to overcome their Christmas Cravings! There are also lots of variations of the recipe available online, allowing you to experiment and find which method suits you best!

 Image via Wikimedia Commons. (original author: veganbaking.net)

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup of plain cocoa powder 
  • 1/2 cup of natural liquid sweetener, such as honey(not always considered vegan) or pure maple syrup
  • Additions of your choice, such as chopped nuts, dried fruit/berries etc. 

Method:

Step 1 - Place the coconut oil into a thick-bottomed saucepan, and heat gently on the stove until completely melted.

Step 2 - Place the coconut oil into a bowl, then add the liquid sweetener and sifted cocoa powder (to avoid lumps).

Step 3 - Whisk the ingredients together until thoroughly combined. 

Step 4 -  Line a baking tray or square tin with parchment paper, and pour out the chocolate mixture, spreading to ensure an even finish.

Step 5 - If desired, sprinkle over your additional ingredients, or gently stir them into the mixture before pouring.

Step 6 - Place into the freezer for around 30 mins, or until hardened. 

Step 7 - Using a sharp knife, cut the chocolate into pieces/chunks.

Step 8 - Refrigerate in an airtight container to keep your chocolate fresh, and to avoid melting.

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Baklava

If the glimmer of UK sunshine is making you impatient for your summer holiday, here’s a recipe that will give you a taste of that Aegean bliss.                                                            

Sourced from a lady who was taught how to make this classic dish first-hand by a Greek friend, this sweet and nutty recipe is a truly authentic take on the popular pastry dish. Luckily it’s not too difficult to make either, so you’ll be sitting back and relaxing with a piping hot pastry on your plate before you know it! 

Ingredients:

For the baklava 

  • 250g (9 oz) butter, melted
  • 500g (1 1/4 lb) chopped walnuts (you can use a combination of almonds if you wish
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 packet filo pastry

 

For the sauce 

  • 200g (7 oz) caster sugar
  • 250ml (9 fl oz) water
  • 8 tablespoons Greek honey
  • 1 large piece of lemon peel

 

Instructions:

Step 1 - Preheat your oven to 180°C/Gas mark 4, before greasing the sides and bottom of a large baking tray.

Step 2 - Pour the nuts and cinnamon into a bowl and mix together thoroughly, before setting aside for later.

Step 3 - Unroll your package of filo pastry, then cut the whole stack to fit the size of your tray. You should cover your unused pastry with a wet towel as you prepare the dish, to keep it from drying out.

Step 4 - Place two sheets of the filo onto the tray, before buttering the top layer. You should then repeat this step until you have 8 sheets layers on top of each other. Sprinkle 2-3 table spoons of the nut-cinnamon mixture on top, then top with 2 sheets of filo, butter and nuts, continuing to layer as you go along. Once you get to the top, this should also be 6-8 sheets deep, like the base.

Step 5 - Take a sharp kitchen knife, and begin to cut your baklava into segments. You can choose to cut them into diamond or square shapes, working from the top to the bottom of the dish. Once this is done, pop them into the pre-heated over and bake for around 50 minutes until the pastry is crispy and golden in colour.

Step 6 - Whilst your baklava is baking, prepare the sauce. Begin by boiling the caster sugar and water until all of the sugar is dissolved, before adding the honey and lemon peel. Simmer on a low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, then remove the saucepan and allow it to cool. Once the sauce has cooled fully, you can remove the lemon peel.

Step 7 - Remove the baklava from the oven, and immediately pour over the cooled sauce. Eat when the entire dish has cooled, then store uncovered to prevent your pastry from going soggy. 

Source: All Recipes

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