Lately I have been really into combining chocolate and pomegranate. You will soon see that our Thanksgiving episode (still a secret!) will feature a special dessert that combines the two flavors. But for a more simple preparation, I have been topping my breakfast oatmeal with dark chocolate powder and pomegranate seeds. Usually I would use Valrhona dark chocolate baking powder, which comes in little containers at Whole Foods. Dark baking powder is fat free and low in calories. You only need a scant tablespoons worth, and that might even be too much. Another way you can eat healthy chocolate in the morning is by grinding up the raw cocoa nibs (also known as cacao nuts)in a food processor or spice grinder until they are a fine powder. Neither of these has any sugar in it, mind you.
The reason why dark chocolate is a good idea in the morning is because it contains a chemical called theobromine, which is really good for improving mood. I always feel almost trippy-happy after some raw chocolate. It is also rich in magnesium, which relaxes tense muscles and nerves as well as eases blood flow around the body. Dark chocolate has a slightly bitter taste which is nicely counteracted by the sweet and slightly sour pomegranate seeds. Both are antioxidants, which work to counteract the oxidization of cells. The two of them together on top of high-fiber oatmeal make a great way to start your day. But the bottom line is that it tastes really good and is a pleasure to eat.