In Bears & Chocolate, part 1, we established What's happenin'? with the bear part of the celebration. Of course, chocolate bears are always a big hit, especially during the holiday season. For the second part of the celebration, focus will be on a specific kind of chocolate loaded with a special nut.

November 7 is...

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Bittersweet Chocolate Almond Torte

This intriguingly specific day celebrates a particular combination of flavors – dark, bitter chocolate and toasted almonds. As one of the oldest recipes known in the English-speaking world involving chocolate, Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds is featured as the only chocolate dish in an 18th-century cookbook. This day of celebration stands alongside Milk Chocolate with Almonds Day.

This festive celebration exists mainly as an idea circulated on the internet. It is sponsored by the National Confections Association, and celebrated and encouraged by organizations such as food.com, a site which aims to encourage cooking and the appreciation of food by holding various different food days.

Various studies have shown both the tannins in dark chocolate and the various fatty acids in almonds have many health benefits. Bitter Chocolate with Almonds Day encourages making and enjoying a delicious and nourishing dessert. Celebrate by dipping blanched almonds in the best dark chocolate you can find, and serving to your friends with a glass of red wine!

Recipe of the Day...