b'The Cerebral ChefServing Up Food for ThoughtSteve Norton, co-facilitator of BIAAZs The Brain CaveRECIPESmens discussion group,Easy Vegan Mole Sauce (6 Servings)was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes in 2006. WhilePrep time: 5 minute / Cook time: 15 minutesworking as a private chefINGREDIENTSfor a family in northern1 Tbsp light oil 2 tsp chili powderCalifornia in 2012, he ex- 1 yellow onion, chopped 1 tsp oreganoperienced a hemorrhagic2 cloves garlic, mincedto 1 tsp chipotle powderstroke, which caused pa- 2 C. vegetable broth (depending on spice ralysis on the left side of his body. Even though he had spent2 tsp cocoa powder preference)years ensuring those he cooked for ate healthy meals made1Tbsp all-purpose flourtsp ground cuminwith fresh ingredients, his own eating habits were poor due to1 Tbsp natural peanut buttertsp cinnamonlong work hours and a busy schedule. The stroke proved to be tsp saltthe wake-up call Steve needed to take charge of his health andINSTRUCTIONSwhat he put into his body. He now uses food as medicine, andHeat the oil in a skillet or large saucepan. When hot, saut the believes people can heal their bodies from the inside-out. Hisonion and garlic until the onions turn translucent and begin to column, which will be regularly featured in The Noggin, will offerbrown, about 5 minutes. Add the broth and scrape off any bits recipes, ideas, and tips for incorporating and enjoying deliciousstuck to the bottom of the pan. Add cocoa, flour, peanut but-brain-boosting foods.ter, and all spices, whisking well to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook about 5 minutes until mixture thickens and is very fra-grant. Use an immersion blender in the pot, or add the sauce to DARK CHOCOLATE ON THE BRAIN a blender, and blend until completely smooth. Serve hot. Store This is part two of a two-part series on the brainleftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to one week.benefits of dark chocolate with accompanying recipesDark chocolate boosts mood by increasing the productionSlow Cooker Chili (6 Servings)of endorphins, the brains feel-good chemicals.EndorphinsCook time: 4 hourshave been shown to aid in reducing pain and the negativeINGREDIENTSeffects of stress. Dark chocolate may also enhance the1 Tbsp olive oil 2 - 14 oz. cans diced tomatoesfunction of your brain. It contains plant chemicals called1lbs. ground turkey 1 - 14 oz. can black beans, flavanols that have been shown to improve blood flow toor beef drained and rinsedthe brain, increase memory, attention span, reaction time,2 Tbsp chili powder 1 - 14 oz. can red kidney focus, and problem-solving skills. Dark chocolate is also2 tsp ground cumin beans, drained & rinsedrich in essential minerals needed by the body such as iron,1 tsp dried oregano 3 C. beef stockcopper, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorous.1 medium onion, chopped 2 oz. dark chocolate, choppedFor the best quality dark chocolates, look for cocoa or a2 cloves garlic, minced Salt & pepper to tasteform of cocoa to be listed as the products first ingredient. It should also contain at least 70% cocoa and have little-to- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded no sugar. Darker chocolates can take some getting used to,cheeseso start with chocolate containing at least 50% cocoa andINSTRUCTIONSwork your way up.The darker the chocolate, the greaterHeat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. the benefits.Add ground turkey (or beef), chili powder, cumin, oregano, and Try one or both of the following two recipes incorporat- a big pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 ing dark chocolate for a sweet take on classic savory dishes. minutes. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally until softened, 3-5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker and stir in toma-toes, beans, and stock. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Add 17The Noggin | 2020vol 5issue 2 17The Noggin | 2020vol 5issue 2in chopped chocolate and stir. Serve and enjoy!'