Peanut Butter and Chocolate Fondue
Contributed by: News Canada
Peanuts pack a big, healthy punch
(NC) - This year the average Canadian will consume 2.7kg (nearly 6lbs) of peanuts and peanut butter. So what are we getting out of these nuts? Lots - and we're not just talking about the great taste and versatility! Peanuts pack a very powerful punch providing a variety of nutrients. In fact, eating peanuts and peanut butter regularly, along with a low trans and saturated fat intake, has been proven to lower blood cholesterol and reduce the chances of developing heart disease by 21 per cent.
Here is just some of the great nutritional value that gets packed into each and every little peanut shell:
Protein - Peanuts have more protein than many other legumes or nuts so they are a perfect choice for anyone needing an extra energy boost to keep them going longer.
Unsaturated Fat - A common misconception is that peanuts have a high fat content and are fattening, but in fact, peanuts contain 85 per cent good fat and are low in saturated fat. As part of a balanced diet, peanuts can actually help lower blood cholesterol levels.
Fibre - Just one serving, about a handful, of peanuts provides 2.2 grams of dietary fibre. This is nine per cent of your recommended daily fibre intake.
Vitamin E - Just two tablespoons of peanut butter is an excellent source of vitamin E, providing 21 per cent of the recommended daily allowance.
Minerals - There are 20 essential minerals necessary for normal body growth and maintenance. Peanuts and peanut butter contain 35 percent of these essential minerals including: magnesium, copper, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.
So the next time you are reaching for a snack, why not reach for a handful of peanuts or a scoop of peanut butter - and get started on your 2.7kg of this healthy legume.
For more information on the nutritional profile of peanuts and peanut butter visit www.peanutbureau.ca.
*Kris-Etherton, P.M., Pearson, T.A., Wan, Y., Hargrove, R.L., Moriarty, K., Fishell, V. et Etherton T.D. "High monounsaturated fatty acid diets lower both plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations," American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1999. 70: 1009-15.
Peanut butter and chocolate come together and take fondue to a new level. Dip your favourite fruits in Peanut Butter and Chocolate Fondue for an irresistible ending to a dinner party or a late night study treat.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz (125 g) semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) 35% whipping cream
- 1/3 cup plus 2 tbsp (105 mL) extra creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup (50 mL) granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp (45 mL) corn syrup
- 2 tbsp (30 mL) vanilla extract
Directions:
In heavy-bottomed saucepan combine chocolate, cream, peanut butter, sugar and corn syrup. Stir constantly over medium heat until melted and smooth.
Stir in vanilla. If fondue is being served right away, transfer to any warm bowl for serving. In a fondue console it will stay warm for 1 to 2 hours.
Tip: Enjoy Peanut Butter and Chocolate Fondue with pears, granny smith apples, strawberries, bananas, pretzels, sponge cake, pound cake or angel food cake. For a fun twist, make little finger size jam sandwiches with pound cake, sponge cake or angel food cake and create a new spin on peanut butter and jelly.
Courtesy of the Peanut Bureau of Canada*. For more delicious recipe ideas visit www.peanutbureau.ca.
*The Peanut Bureau of Canada is the Canadian information office of the American Peanut Council.
Serving Size: Makes 6 Servings
