Chocolate Bark

Valentine’s Day, chocolate treats—complete with important minerals, anti-oxidants and even some vitamins! Chocolate really is good for you. This is a classic home-made candy, spiced up a little with ginger and hot pepper. Easy, fast—and good for you.

INGREDIENTS
18 ounces bittersweet baking chocolate
1 tsp butter
½ tsp ground allspice
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Dried mixed fruit (berries, cherries, cranberries)
Handful of toasted nuts (cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts)
2-3 slices candied ginger, sliced into very thin strips
¼ tsp coarse sea salt

DIRECTIONS

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 2/3rds of the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Add the butter and remaining chocolate and stir until combined—then stir vigorously until smooth and shiny.
Spread the still-warm chocolate mixture 1/4-inch thick on the paper-lined baking sheet, then sprinkle with a dusting of allspice, and the cayenne, if using. Spread the fruit, ginger strips and nuts on the chocolate. Use your fingers or spatula to press the fruit and nuts into the soft chocolate. Sprinkle on the salt, then chill until very firm. To serve, break into pieces. Store in airtight container.

The Kitchen Hive