Chocolate Ganache

Saying goodbye is one of the more difficult aspects of life.  As many of you know, dear friends are not easily found.  When I must let one go and wish her well on her new adventures I find myself somewhat solemn and contemplative. I ponder the precious nature of deep friendships and wonder if I could ever travel through life without them.  I know I could not.

Yesterday was one such day for me.  It was a day of farewell. My dear friend Katie-Lynne came to visit to spend time with me, celebrate her birthday a bit and unfortunately to say goodbye.  She is venturing out to find her own life and experience new places and people.  I am excited for her, but I must admit I am hopeful that her journey will not be too long.  As good friends do, we spent most of the time talking and laughing.  Updates regarding jobs and relationships were shared.  Topics that are wonderfully girly were embraced...weddings, Anthropologie purchases, etc.  The only pause was for a baking break.... for we share a love of the culinary arts, as well as all things delicious! We created a delicious Chocolate Ganache, altering an old, grain-free brownie recipe I had found.  It turned out simply yummy, so of course I must share it with you!  A rich, fudgy chocolate ganache suited a girls' get together and it definitely gave Katie and I a satisfying treat, somehow softening the blow of our farewell.

Sadly, we all must say goodbye to the ones we love.  My encouragement to you is to cherish the times you have.  Take time to celebrate life and friendship and never hesitate to do it with treats...they can always be called upon to sweeten the mood.

Life truly is both sweet and salty.

{Chocolate Ganche}

2 cups Organic Black Beans

1/4 cup Organic Pure Cocoa Powder

1/2 tsp Cinnamon

2 TBSP Chia Seed + 2 tsp Egg Replacer + 4 TBSP warm Water (or 3 eggs)

1/3 cup Liquid, Extra-Virgin, Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil

2 tsp Vanilla Extract

1/2 cup Honey or Maple Syrup or Raw Agave

1/3 cup Dark Chocolate Chips (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free..etc)

1/3 cup dried Cranberries

1/4 cup chopped Dark Chocolate Chunks

Instructions:

Pour all the ingredients, except the last three into a food processor or blender.  Blend until smooth and then mix in the Chips, Cranberries and Chunks.  Pour into a greased 8x8 pan and bake for 40 minutes or until it begins to bubble.  The Ganache will remain gooey, but pull it out and let it cool.  Serve cooled with your choice of ice cream or berries. It is rich so savor slowly!

Congratulations Amy on your 1st Anniversary! Thank you for creating a forum of wonderful recipes at Slightly Indulgent Tuesday
Also linked to Gluten-Free Wednesdays

A Green Beauty...

I am so inspired by the Anthropologie stores' involvement in their communities. Here are a few beautiful snap shots from their Earth day.  Visit their website and facebook to see more!

A day at the Grove...

Although I have technically lived in Los Angeles for almost four years now, I have never been to the Grove.  A beautiful slice of L.A., the Grove is a place everyone should experience at one point or another.  I went with friends today and it was lovely.  I received a taste and now plan to return with a camera, cash for the market and no set expectations.  L.A. provides the ideal setting for individuals like myself.  The people watching is exquisite and everywhere you turn there is an amazing angle or arrangement to photograph.  This is why I should go alone next time...I could hardly keep up with my girlfriends because I was so struck by the colors and textures and variety of faces and dress.  Oh, to have a real camera! My little point and shoot was just not enough to capture the beautiful diversity around me.

The permanent farmers market towards the end of the Grove had an array of international foods and unique trinkets.  I could have milled about there for hours.  A vintage boutique was filled with delicate treasures, jars of knick knacks from decades past and classic, glass bottles lined up along the walls.  

I was in heaven when I past by a few produce booths. 

My favorite subject to photograph, the vegetables and fruit, were rich, vibrant colors.  I could not pass by with out capturing a bit of the fresh, simple beauty.

Evian, I am impressed.  I almost fell over when I found their beautifully designed, glass water bottles...just lovely.  The striped bottles immediately made me think of a summer party in my backyard, with colorful dish-ware, Crate and Barrel style.

The Grove livens up at night.  People are milling about, everywhere.  Again, so fascinating! I sense a strong individuality among these people.  They put forth so much effort to be original in their dress and look.  Respect is given or withheld depending on your image.  Outsiders are easily identified, as it takes a well-developed knowledge of current, urban fashion to blend in.  The women rock amazing heels with almost any and every outfit.  Men look polished, whether they sport the grungy, rolled-out-of-bed-on-purpose look or the designer jeans and shoes ensemble.  Today,  I was reminded of the general rule, never look too put together...it screams "trying too hard".  

Speaking of style...the Anthropologie at the Grove is just gorgeous. fell in love with the layout of the store and their spring collection is absolutely lovely.  Anthro you have perfected the look of feminine delicacy and mystique through your clothing line.  Thank you.

Soon West L.A. I will return and, perhaps, a stop by Babycakes for a tea and treat before hand might perfect the day.  Done!, Babycakes and the Grove will be my next adventure.  A delightful plan, yes?  Well, so long and to all who celebrate it...happy Saint Patrick's Day!