MENOPAUSE-FRIENDLY RECIPES

Dark Chocolate Ganache (From The Menopause Brain, by Lisa Mosconi)

What makes this treat so special is that it is the dark chocolate is a source of antioxidants, fiber and other vitamins - without refined sugar - yet it is creamy, rich and delicious. We love to add more antioxidants, fiber and flavor with fresh raspberries!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsweetened dark chocolate chips

1/4 cup unrefined coconut oil

1 heaping Tablespoon raw cocoa powder

1 Tablespoon maple syrup

Directions:

Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil (stovetop or microwave). Then stir in cocoa powder and maple syrup. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and freeze for about 3 hours.

Grilled Pork Loin Chops with Apples (Adapted from a recipe in Great Plates and one in Williams-Sonoma Weeknight)

This dish is a great source of protein and B vitamins from the pork, without added fat. The apples bring out the flavor of the pork while offering a great source of fiber, antioxidants and other vitamins.

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

4 (4-ounce) boneless center-cut, sustainably raised, loin pork chops

3 large Granny Smith (or other tart) apples

Directions:

Combine sage, salt and pepper; sprinkle over pork and pat firmly. Let stand for 10 minutes. Grill over medium-high heat, turning at least once, until lightly browned on the outside and barely pink on the inside, 8-12 minutes. Can also be broiled in the oven.

Peel and core apples, then cut crosswise into slices 1/2 inch thick (approximately 6 slices per apple). Place apples on grill around the pork, where the heat is less intense - or around the chops on the baking sheet if broiling. Cook, at least once, until tender, 4-6 minutes.

Cut the apples slices in half and serve on top of the pork.