When you think of chocolate, your mind probably drifts to decadent desserts, rich hot cocoa, and irresistible candies. But what if we told you that chocolate can be the secret ingredient to elevate your grilling game this summer? From rubs to BBQ sauces and even specialty dishes, chocolate is stepping out of the dessert aisle and onto the grill. Here's how you can use chocolate to create mouthwatering grilled dishes that will leave your guests pleasantly surprised and craving more.
Cocoa Powder Rubs: A Fruity, Earthy Twist
Using cocoa powder as a rub for meats like chicken, turkey, and other grilled favorites can add an unexpected depth of flavor. The cocoa powder imparts a fruity, earthy, and slightly bitter note that complements the savory profile of grilled meats beautifully. Here’s how to create a simple yet delicious cocoa powder rub:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Rub generously over your choice of meat.
- Grill as usual, and enjoy the complex flavors that the cocoa powder brings out.
Deepen Flavors with Chocolate BBQ Sauce
When it comes to BBQ sauces, unsweetened chocolate is your best friend. It enhances the sauce’s depth, giving it a rich, savory backbone that makes other ingredients pop. Here’s a quick recipe for a chocolate BBQ sauce that will make your grilled dishes unforgettable:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Use the sauce to baste your grilled meats or as a delicious dipping sauce.
Specialty Dish: Chipotle Chocolate Ribs
For a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress, try making Chipotle Chocolate Ribs. The semi-sweet chocolate pairs perfectly with the smoky heat of chipotle, creating a complex, tantalizing flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (recipe above)
- 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix together cocoa powder, brown sugar, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Grill the ribs over indirect heat for about 2 hours, turning occasionally.
- In the last 30 minutes of grilling, baste the ribs with the BBQ sauce.
- Once the ribs are done, brush them with the melted semi-sweet chocolate.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the unique combination of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors.
Beyond Dessert: Chocolate’s Savory Potential
Chocolate is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a versatile ingredient that can add richness and complexity to your grilling repertoire. Whether you're using cocoa powder for rubs, unsweetened chocolate for deep BBQ sauces, or semi-sweet chocolate for a specialty dish like Chipotle Chocolate Ribs, there are endless possibilities to explore.
This summer, embrace the heat and take your grilling to the next level by incorporating chocolate in unexpected ways. Your taste buds – and your guests – will thank you!
You can find our Ground Powder Here, Unsweetened Chocolate (Collection is currently OOS, but will be back soon), Semi Sweet Chocolate Block