Raw chocolate and orange tart is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of raw cacao with the refreshing citrus taste of orange. This raw dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides numerous health benefits when consumed as part of a raw food diet.
Flavorful Combination of Raw Chocolate and Orange
The raw chocolate and orange tart is a perfect harmony of flavors. The intense and decadent taste of raw cacao is balanced by the zesty sweetness of fresh orange. The bitterness of cacao complements the tanginess of orange, resulting in a divine fusion of flavors that dances on your taste buds.
Ingredients for Raw Chocolate and Orange Tart
Creating this indulgent raw treat is simple, requiring only a handful of nutritious ingredients:
- Raw Almonds: These nutrient-dense nuts form the base of the tart, providing a crunchy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
- Medjool Dates: These natural sweeteners bind the crust together and add a caramel-like taste.
- Raw Cacao Powder: The star ingredient of this dessert, raw cacao powder, is packed with antioxidants and enhances the rich chocolatey flavor.
- Coconut Oil: This healthy fat gives the filling its smooth and creamy texture while providing a plethora of health benefits.
- Orange Zest and Juice: To infuse the tart with a burst of citrus flavor, both orange zest and juice are added.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that beautifully balances the bitterness of raw cacao.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile, rounding out the taste of the tart.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances the other flavors and adds complexity to the overall taste.
Health Benefits of a Raw Food Diet
Eating raw, unprocessed foods has gained popularity due to its array of health benefits. A raw food diet primarily consists of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds in their natural state. Including raw chocolate and orange tart in your raw food diet can amplify these benefits.
Raw cacao is a nutritional powerhouse, containing high levels of antioxidants, magnesium, and iron. Antioxidants protect against free radicals, supporting overall health and vitality. Magnesium plays a important role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function.
Oranges are well-known for their vitamin C content, which boosts the immune system and promotes collagen production for healthy skin. Oranges also provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and supporting a healthy gut.
Moreover, the natural ingredients used in this tart provide essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that contribute to overall well-being when consumed as part of a balanced raw food diet.
Recipe for Raw Chocolate and Orange Tart
Now that we understand the flavor profile and nutritional benefits, let’s dive into the recipe for this delectable raw chocolate and orange tart:
- Prepare the crust:
- In a food processor, blend 1 cup of raw almonds until finely ground.
- Add 6 Medjool dates (pitted) and 2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder to the food processor. Blend until the mixture sticks together.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a tart pan lined with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Make the filling:
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of soaked cashews (drained), 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, the juice and zest of 2 oranges, 2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting sweetness or chocolatey flavor to taste.
- Pour the filling and chill:
- Pour the filling onto the crust in the tart pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Garnish and serve:
- Once the tart is firm, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Decorate with additional orange zest or sprinkle some raw cacao powder on top.
- Slice into pieces and serve chilled. Enjoy!
This raw chocolate and orange tart is an absolute delight that will satisfy your raw food dessert cravings while providing a plethora of health benefits. So go ahead, indulge in this guilt-free treat and experience the delightful flavors of raw chocolate and orange!