One of my friends travels to Albuquerque frequently on business. I just emailed him to tell him to look for mole sauce on his current trip. And then I got to thinking, with Valentine's Day just around the corner, it would be a unique and healthy way for this blog's readers to dish up some chocolate!
Mole sauce is a Mexican sauce derived from cocoa powder. There are many different varieties, but some of the more common varities also include cinnamon, chile peppers, and nuts. Not long ago a local chef did a demonstration at our local botanical garden. Her version had about 14 different herbs and spices! This sauce is great on most meats, but I like it best on chicken.
Chocolate actually may have some heart-healthy benefits; researchers have said that an ounce of dark chocolate is as good as a baby aspirin for heart health! And cinnamon is gaining recognition for its effect on improving insulin function.
If you Google"mole sauce", you'll find plenty of recipes to try. Make this the week you treat your sweetie, as well as your heart.