Take Your Chocolate Every Day
By now, most people have heard that chocolate can offer health benefits. It contains antioxidants and important minerals like copper, manganese, iron and magnesium, along with compounds such as tannins and theobromine that contribute to its nutritive profile. Chocolate is also known to support mood through the release of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin.
But not all chocolate is created equal. Many products contain questionable ingredients, too much sugar or fall short on flavor.
Fortunately, there are a few exceptionally nutrient-rich options made right here in Indiana!
Single-Origin Bean-to-Bar Chocolate
Chocolat Café | Rushville, Indiana
Chocolat Café carefully roasts, refines and tempers cacao beans to create chocolate that showcases the unique characteristics of each origin.
Tasting notes vary and may include berries, citrus, nuts, caramel or warm spices depending on where the cacao is grown, offering a flavor experience similar to coffee or wine.
Single-origin dark chocolate bars are rich enough that just a few squares can satisfy a daily chocolate craving.
Where to Buy: A rotating selection of Chocolat Café’s single-origin chocolate bars is available for purchase at our micromarkets. Contact us directly for bulk or special-order requests.
Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar
Olive Leaf | Bloomington, Indiana
Olive Leaf's Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar combines aged balsamic vinegar with three different single-origin chocolates for a rich, complex flavor that moves easily between sweet and savory dishes.
Naturally occurring polyphenols from grapes complement the flavonoids found in dark chocolate, adding another layer of plant-based goodness to an already decadent pairing.
This balsamic contains no added sugars, preservatives, artificial colors or artificial flavors.
Where to Buy: Olive Leaf's Dark Chocolate Balsamic is available for purchase online or at their shop located at 2534 E 3rd St., Bloomington.
Local Cocoa Mix
Second KISS | Greenwood, Indiana
Second KISS Hot Cocoa Mix is crafted with organic high-fat cocoa powder, real vanilla bean and Indiana maple sugar for a rich, satisfying cup with just the right amount of sweetness.
Cocoa naturally provides antioxidants, minerals and beneficial plant compounds, giving this cozy classic a little more substance alongside the indulgence.
Minimally processed maple sugar adds gentle sweetness and trace minerals, while seasonal variations featuring homegrown peppermint or warming spices bring an extra layer of flavor and character.
Where to Buy: Second KISS Hot Cocoa Mix returns to our micromarkets each October.
