Why You Should Nibble on a (Cacao) Nib!
Cacao nibs, which have a similar flavour and bitterness to dark chocolate, have become a popular snack in recent years!
How are Cacao Nibs Made?
Firstly, you need a cocoa bean - the key ingredient in chocolate. Cocoa beans are harvested, dried, fermented, and cracked to produce smaller, darker pieces - cacao nibs!
Cacao nibs can be bought roasted (the more common) or raw, and they're available in most supermarkets and health food stores' health food aisles!
Due to their taste and texture, they've also become a popular addition to smoothies and bowls at cafes.
What are the Benefits of Cacao Nibs?
First of all - deliciousness! One may argue that this is their most beneficial benefit, but I digress.
Small in size, cacao nibs are extremely nutrient-dense - they're a good source of fibre, protein, and healthy fats and rich in minerals, including iron and magnesium. The potential benefits for the body are nearly endless given what the nutrients can assist with.
Cacao nibs are also high in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Cocoa products, including cacao nibs, have the highest content of flavonoids (a type of antioxidant), meaning they can significantly contribute to the dietary intake of antioxidants.
Given the core nutritional benefits of cacao nibs, cacao nibs can potentially benefit with blood sugar control, improving heart health, anti-inflammatory properties... and hunger levels!
Regarding cocoa products, cacao nibs aren't highly processed and are much lower in sugar than some available products. They don't taste the same as a milk chocolate chip, but if you're a dark chocolate fan, they might make a great alternative!
Cacao Nib Recipes
While cacao nibs make a great snack and a delicious crunchy topper for smoothies and bowls, they make a great addition to many recipes!
For breakfast, try our Peanut Butter Overnight Oats topped with cacao nibs—thank us later! Or, if you're looking for a high-protein granola, try our Chocolate Granola.
If you're looking for a tasty treat topped with a delicious crunch, these quick and easy Protein Donuts could be the one for you!
Want a healthy ice cream alternative? Our Creamy White Chocolate Iced Treats are delicious and filled with goji berries and cacao nibs for guilt-free indulgence.
Ebony is our resident wordsmith here at Bulk! A reforming journalist and a graduate of the University of Tasmania, she's our resident copywriter, cat mum, pilates princess and (self appointed) Chief Swiftie!
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