Beyond the brownie: Unique twists for chocolate lovers

Chocolate. The mere mention evokes tantalising visuals of silky truffles, rich molten lava cakes and decadent brownies. Yet, beyond these beloved treats lies an exciting culinary world waiting to be explored! And if you are an adventurous foodie, World Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate the toothsome versatility of this ingredient.

According to the Godrej Food Trends Report (GFTR 2024), chocolate will continue to be the most popular sweet indulgence, but the Indian chocolate consumer has grown up and is looking for more sophisticated offerings.

Get ready to ditch the predictable and dive into four unique chocolate-infused recipes that will leave you craving more!

Chilli chocolate sauce

Chocolate and chili? Believe it or not, this seemingly odd pairing creates a flavour explosion that will have you reaching for seconds. This versatile sauce can be used to elevate meats, roasted vegetables or even tacos. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter until translucent. Add cocoa powder, chopped dark chocolate, a touch of honey and your favourite chilli peppers. Simmer until smooth and glossy. The richness of the chocolate combined with the heat from the chilies creates a depth of flavour that’s unforgettable.

Chocolate-Dusted Scallops

Looking to add a touch of sophistication to your dinner menu? Try chocolate-dusted scallops! Start with searing scallops in butter until they achieve a golden-brown crust. While they cook, mix together cocoa powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of sea salt for dusting. When the scallops are thoroughly cooked, gently dust them with the chocolate mixture. Fresh sea scallops combined with the rich, earthy notes of cocoa creates a perfectly blissful dish.

Smoky chocolate chip hummus

Yes, you read that right—chocolate chip hummus! This dessert, is a surprising yet delicious way to enjoy chocolate. Begin by blending chickpeas, tahini and a bit of Jersey Rich Curd until smooth. Add cocoa powder, a hint of vanilla and a handful of dark chocolate chips. For a smoky twist, include a dash of smoked paprika. Pair this innovative dip with sliced fruits, crunchy pretzel crisps or Graham crackers for a delightful appetiser or healthy snack.

Dark chocolate-infused ratatouille

Ratatouille, the traditional French vegetable stew, gets a gourmet upgrade with the infusion of dark chocolate. Sauté vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers and tomatoes in olive oil. Once tender, stir in a small amount of grated dark chocolate and a splash of Godrej Jersey heavy cream. The earthy notes of the chocolate beautifully complement the sweetness of the caramelised vegetables, adding a rich, velvety texture to the dish.

Perfect for adventurous palates, these recipes are sure to impress everyone at your next dinner party. And the creamy texture of Jersey dairy pairs perfectly with the smooth, rich chocolate, making it an irresistible combination.

Are you ready to celebrate chocolate in exciting new ways—been there, done that, and eager for more? Tell us in the comment section.