Chocolate Alfajores: Sweet yet Healthy Treat From Latin America
Have you heard of "Argentinian alfajores?" Probably not, since most people, if not all, have not yet heard of it.
In an article about this sweet treat with an Argentinian twist, The Guardian described alfajor is described as "the best chocolate treat" the readers have not heard of.
If it is your first time to taste alfajor, those who have, claim, you will forget that moment. This is quite a perfect dessert to prepare, especially while on lockdown.
Alfajores are customary Latin American delicacies typically coming in a pair of soft cookies around "dulce de leche" covered with chocolate. Those who have tried the treats describe the taste of the Alfajores as "heavenly!"
The Story of Alfajores
For the last five years, Latin food has gained popularity in Houston. Reminiscently, one local gourmet grocery used, had a fair with Argentinian products. They had Alfajores, which, as mentioned, are the most common treats from Argentina with biscuits made of cornstarch.
One Argentinian introduced the Alfajores Havanna, amazing soft chocolate cookies that melt in the mouth. They are filled with Dulce de Leche, a perfect combination for a dark or semi-bitter coating of chocolate.
To some, they describe the Alfajores Havanna is addictive. This is a perfect specialty to prepare for the kids if they have school events in the future that will require them to bring food from different countries.
Specifically, in Chile, this Alfajores type is typically linked to "the Saulsalito brand" originally from the beach city close to the capital, Viña del Mar.
Dark Chocolate Coating the Alfajores has Health Benefits
Dark chocolate, which is usually used to coat the cookies in Alfajores, is filled with nutrients that can favorably impact one's health. Made from cocoa seed trees, dark chocolate is among the best sources of antioxidants.
Studies have shown that dark chocolate helps improve a person's health, not to mention, lowers the risk of a heart ailment. Other than this, there are other health benefits you can get from Alfajores, specifically those that are coated with dark chocolate. Here are some of them:
Nutritious
Dark chocolate is to be rich in magnesium manganese, copper, iron and fiber, and some other minerals.
Great Source of Antioxidants
Both dark chocolate and cocoa have an array of powerful antioxidants. They even have "way more than a majority of the other foods."
Lowers the Blood Pressure and Helps Improve Blood Flow
The bioactive compounds found in cocoa help to lower blood pressure and also improve blood flow in the arteries.
Increases HDL and Shields LDL from Oxidative Damage
Dark chocolates help in the improvement of some essential risk factors for the disease. It reduces the vulnerability of LDL to oxidation while enhancing insulin sensitivity and increasing HDL.
Lessens the Risk of Heart Disease
Studies have shown a rapid reduction in the risk of heart disease among the people who eat or drink the most chocolate.
Serves as the Skin's Protector from Exposure to Sun
According to research, the flavanols that the cocoa has can enhance blood flow through the skin and shield it from the damage of the sun.
Helps Improve Brain Function
Dark chocolate or cocoa may help "enhance the brain function by increasing the blood flow." It has stimulants too, such as theobromine and caffeine.
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