There is a quote apocryphally attributed to Hollywood icon Katharine Hepburn: “What you see before you, my friend, is the result of a lifetime of chocolate.” Setting aside whether this quote was indeed by Hepburn, the idea behind the quote – that eating chocolate could play a part in helping you become beautiful and smart – is very plausible.
In the earliest records of chocolate that has been found so far, it was believed to be both medicinal and sacred; so precious that it was sacrificed to the gods and used as currency. In 1753, a scientist – a person one might think as a practical realist – named it Theobroma or “food of the gods”. Today, after deep studies and research by scholars from all walks of life – from gourmets and chefs to historians and scientists, chocolate has been proven to be rich with unique nutrients that help to improve your mood; cognitive functions; as well as your overall health, particularly that of your heart, skin and digestive system.
However, for many of us, we love chocolate for a very simple reason: because it’s delicious. Whether it comes milky smooth or deep, dark and intense, chocolate is a unique existence. And with Easter coming up, each of the GastroSense team shares one of our favourites!
Hero Image Credit: Stockcake
Bing Blokbergen-Leow
Recommendation: Cacao Tea (various brands)
I first tried this in Malaysia when a good chef friend gifted me some one year ago. I was immediately enamoured. A slightly more unusual way of “experiencing” chocolate, this tea is made by steeping the husks of the cacao fruit to produce a tea essence that has a delicate chocolate flavour and aroma. If you enjoy something a little richer, you can add cream or milk and sugar, or even honey! However, I personally enjoy it pure: the flavour is almost like dark chocolate, but gentler and more refreshing, with a clean finish. As a bonus, it has all of the health benefits of chocolate and zero caffeine.
Merissa Chong
Recommendation: Macadamia Chocolate (Meiji)
This chocolate reminds me of the Hawaiian Host chocolate-covered macadamias that the students in my primary school's Brownies CCA group used to sell to raise funds. I haven't had them in years and I don't believe they're readily available at NTUC, so Meiji's macadamia chocolate is my alternative.
L-R: Chocolate Toffee Brittles; Macadamia Chocolate
Nickmatul Huang
Recommendation: Chocolate Toffee Brittles (Wabisabi Bakes and Bites)
These are one of the very few chocolate anything I would wholeheartedly recommend without caveat. My understanding is that the confectioner sees the retail of this as a passion project, and everything is lovingly handmade. The flavour is rich and sweet but perfectly balanced with a touch of saltiness from the pretzel toppings (or so I assume) and a very faint undertone of bitterness from the toffee. It’s full of texture and so much fun to eat – crunchy, chewy, a little melty. And the smell! It’s a siren song of rich chocolate and burnt sugar. I try to hold myself back but I’m seduced into buying multiple bottles every time.
Gladys Ng
Recommendation: FrischSchoggi Hazelnut Dark (Läderach)
As a dark chocolate lover, FrischSchoggi Hazelnut Dark hits all the right notes for me. The deep complex flavours of dark cocoa brings forth lovely notes of berries. The pairing with hazelnut is a winning combination, as the buttery earthiness of the nuts enliven the overall enjoyment.
L-R: FrischShoggi Hazelnut Dark; KitKat Strawberry
Sheryl Neo
Recommendation: KitKat Strawberry (KitKat Japan)
I love strawberry-flavored Kit Kat because it’s not just the usual sweetness of chocolate KitKat — you also get a hint of tartness from the strawberry, which makes it even more enjoyable.
Matthew De Jesus
Recommendation: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (Reese’s)
As a peanut butter lover, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are the perfect balance of salty, sweet, smooth, and crumbly. Whether chilled, melted, or baked into desserts, they never disappoint.
L-R: Milk Chocolate with Almonds Candy Bar; Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
Michelle Lim
Recommendation: Milk Chocolate with Almonds Candy Bar (Hershey’s)
I love Hershey's because it reminds me of my childhood. Growing up, it was always a surprise during supermarket visits. I particularly enjoy the Milk Chocolate with Whole Almonds because the crunch of the almonds perfectly balances the smooth, creamy chocolate.
Natalie Wan
Recommendation: Kinder Bueno (Kinder)
Kinder Bueno has always been my favourite chocolate because it was a childhood treat I grew up with. My brother and I loved sharing it, always knowing it was our go-to indulgence when cravings hit. The creamy hazelnut filling and crispy wafer bring back sweet memories every time.
L-R: Ferraro Rocher; Kinder Bueno
Clair Ong
Recommendation: Ferraro Rocher (Ferraro)
Ferrero Rocher has always been a rare and cherished treat for me. Growing up, I only had the chance to enjoy it during the festive season, which is why it holds such a special place in my heart. I adore its rich, indulgent hazelnut flavour and the perfect, satisfying crunch.
Ee Jia Hui
Recommendation: Peanut M&M’s (M&Ms)
M&M's Peanut has always been my go-to whenever I'm craving chocolate. I really like the smooth, creamy chocolate and the peanut crunch inside with every bite I take. The vibrant pop of color and taste always make me smile after a long day at work.
L-R: Nama Chocolate - Champagne Pierre Mignon; Peanut M&Ms
Isaac Wong
Recommendation: Nama Chocolate – Champagne Pierre Mignon (Royce)
Royce's Nama Champagne has been my favourite chocolate since high school because of its rich flavour from the combination of Champagne and the chocolate’s velvety texture. The light dusting of cocoa powder also adds an extra layer of depth, making each bite an indulgent one. When I’m looking for a small treat for myself after a long day, I’d definitely consider picking a box up.
You don't have to take out word for it. Go get some and try it for yourself!
