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Dark Chocolate - How is it Different from Milk Chocolate?
Dark chocolate is one of the most favourite types of chocolate of chocolate aficionados for long. For the uninitiated, dark chocolate is a type of chocolate that does not contain any added milk solids and has minimal amount of sugar. Other basic ingredients include cacao, flavourings, and emulsifiers. Within dark chocolate also there are different varieties such as sweet, bitter-sweet and semi- sweet. While some of you may like your dark chocolate with less cacao others would love the 70% and above cacao content in their dark chocolate bars. Whichever dark chocolate you eat there are several benefits in it. Let's understand the benefits of dark chocolate first.
Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Flavanol Rich:
A type of flavonoid, dark chocolate is rich in flavanols. Flavanols have been the subject of research for a long time and are known to be effective in lowering the blood pressure, reducing the chances of a blood clot, and preventing cell damage. Cacao beans are a rich source of flavanols and these beans are in abundance in dark chocolate.Fiber Content is High:
Dietary fiber is very important for your body as it is a potent solution against constipation and helps in reducing weight among many other benefits. Dark chocolate is believed to be a rich source of fiber and therefore can be consumed in a balanced quantity.Can Help in Reducing Weight:
Dark chocolate is known to help in reducing body weight through various mechanisms such as reducing the level of insulin, reducing the hunger pangs and by improving the body mass index. However, it does not mean that you can eat dark chocolate in uncontrolled quantity. A balanced eating is always preferred in order to ensure the benefits of dark chocolate.Effective Against Inflammation:
There have been a few case studies which have shown that dark chocolate is effective in reducing inflammation. Antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols are a rich source of antioxidants and therefore effective against inflammation.Can Prevent Cardiovascular Disease:
There have been several studies to understand the effectiveness of dark chocolate on cardiovascular diseases. These studies have found out that regular and balanced intake of cocoa can be effective in preventing cardiovascular diseases. Although, these studies do not suggest that you should eat chocolate on a daily basis, cocoa in particular has been researched upon and has produced positive results.
Best Dark Chocolates in India: Top Options Handpicked for You!
There have been several research studies conducted to understand the positive impact of cocoa on the body. Moreover, dark chocolate has cocoa in abundance with limited amount of sugar which makes it one of the best foods to eat. Understanding the overall market of dark chocolate and increasing inclination of folks towards dark chocolate we did our own research to come up with a list of the best dark chocolates in India worth trying.
1. Paul and Mike 87% Dark Vegan Chocolate
Add the goodness of dark chocolate without compromising your vegan lifestyle with this dark vegan chocolate from Paul and Mike. The award winning brand is best known for their farm-to-bar products and the range of flavours they have to offer. With the soft notes of raisins, this chocolate also has rich and pure cocoa butter, real fruits, spices and pure floral distillates. If you do not think very highly of white refined sugar and try to keep away from chocolates then you are in luck. This chocolate contains muscovado sugar which is better than white refined sugar as it is rich in antioxidants. You can buy this dark vegan chocolate on Paul and Mike for just ₹ 275.00.
2. Artisanté Dominican Single Origin, Dark 70% Smoked Black Salt
If you love the flavour of all things smoked and dark, then you will surely love this Dominican single origin dark chocolate from Artisanté. The luxe fusion of cocoa beans is sourced from some of the most renowned farms located in Ghana, Ivory Coast and Ecuador. Talking about this particular flavour, you get the dominant taste of cocoa with soft floral and fruity notes. To make it even more tempting, a dash of volcanic black salt has been added making this chocolate a work of art. Try this carefully crafted chocolate from Artisanté available for ₹ 420.00.
3. Lindt Excellence 99% Cocoa
Lindt is well known brand amongst dark chocolate fans in India for its strong cocoa flavour blended with other fruity, floral and nutty flavoured chocolates. For those of you who want strong character of cocoa in your chocolate, Lindt Excellence 99% cocoa is apt for you. Its intense cocoa flavour, soft texture and superior melt in the mouth makes this chocolate bar from Lindt worth a try. You can try this pure dark chocolate bar from Lindt in different sizes. A 50 gram pack of this chocolate is available on Amazon for just ₹ 299.00 after discount.
4. The Whole Truth 71% Dark Chocolate - 3 Bars
So you have embarked on a healthy journey but the thought of quitting chocolates for their sugar content is a nightmare? Your vows are taken care of by this dates sweetened dark chocolate from The Whole Truth. On their website, they have a fairly simple ingredient list with 71% cocoa and 29% dates. Apart from the sugar, the makers of this chocolate also claim that ingredients such as maltitol, added flavours and other preservatives are absent in this chocolate. Try yourself this 71% dark, rich and creamy dark chocolate from The Whole Truth for ₹ 597.00 for a pack of 3 bars.
5. All Things Dark – 64% Single Origin Dark Chocolate Bar
This dark chocolate is made from cocoa grown in the Malabar forest region. Celebrating the hard work and finesse of more than 70 small-scale farmer families of this region, this dark chocolate from All Things Dark is a true ode to the age-old taste. The way these cocoa beans are dried is also ideal wherein the beans are fermented in wild jackfruit containers. Apart from the full bodied taste of dark chocolate, you will also experience the notes of oak, caramel, fruit and citrus. Not too bitter and neither too sweet, this 64% single origin dark chocolate is available on All Things Dark for ₹ 827.00.
6. Endangered Species Chocolate, Cranberries, Almonds + Dark Chocolate, 72% Cocoa (85 gm)
Yet another option for vegan lovers, this dark chocolate from Endangered Species is a perfect blend of fruity, nutty and chocolatey flavours. The trifecta of these flavours and bittersweet taste of the velvety chocolate is all things delight. Apart from their crave-worth flavours, we liked the cause that they are fighting for. You will come across a small note on their package suggesting that 10% of their net profits go towards saving wildlife. You can buy this chocolate on iHerb for ₹ 226.00.
7. Amul Dark Chocolate, 150 gm
Amul is one of those few brands in India whose products are used in every household. Although, not as popular as their other products like butter and milk chocolates, Amul dark chocolate bars are gaining ground with each passing year. When it comes to the quality, you can trust Amul with the taste, smoothness and richness of their dark chocolate. With 55% cocoa, the taste of this chocolate has just the right amount of bitterness you look for in your chocolate. You can buy a 150 gm pack of this classic dark chocolate flavour on Amazon for ₹ 85.00 after discount.
8. Didier & Frank Intense 75% Dark Chocolate
Yet another name that is gaining popularity in India is Didier & Frank. The hint of dark chocolate is just perfect in this bar which is vegetarian and gluten-free. However, the USP of this chocolate is that it is keto friendly and therefore you need not wait for that cheat meal to have this chocolate. Available at most of the leading websites and stores, you can buy the 100 gm pack of this chocolate from Amazon for ₹ 299.00.
9. Cadbury Bournville Rich Cocoa 50% Dark Chocolate Bar, 80 gm
Cadbury is one of the oldest and most loved brands in India when it comes to chocolate. It would not be wrong to say that your affair with more intense flavour of cocoa would have started with Cadbury Bournville. The chocolate bar is classic even today with folks swearing by this 50% dark chocolate bar. The 80 gm pack of Cadbury rich dark cocoa chocolate bar is available on Amazon for ₹ 80.00 after a discount.
10.BeeTee's Melt 72% Dark Chocolate with Palm Sugar
No refined sugar is the first thing that caught our attention while including this chocolate bar in our list. If you are looking for luxe taste of dark chocolate that melts in your mouth without having to compromise with the preservatives, stabilisers and fillers, then this 72% dark chocolate from BeeTee's Melt is your perfect choice. On the top of all these goodness, this is a vegan chocolate bar that is available on Beetee's Melt for ₹ 280.00.
11. Ketofy - Dark Keto Chocolate
Imagine you can eat chocolate without having to worry about too much carbs. With Ketofy Dark Keto Chocolate you can enjoy the intense taste of dark chocolate without any added sugar and 0% trans-fat. Apart from just 1% carb per serving, this chocolate also contains 25% protein. Buy this chocolate by Ketofy on Wellversed for ₹ 445.00 after discount.
12. KitKat Dark
KitKat became almost synonymous with taking a short break and the wafer loaded with chocolate became an instant hit. The 70% dark edition of KitKat also became an instant hit with the 4 finger crispy bar covered with dark chocolate in this heavenly blend. You can buy a pack of 3 bars each of 41.5 gm of this chocolate for ₹ 250.00 on Amazon.
13. Hershey’s Special Dark Chocolate
From the house of Hershey's - a 127 year old company that has made a mark globally, this special dark chocolate is what you need to uplift your mood. The 45% cocoa content gives this chocolate a mild bitter and sweet taste spellbinding you with its richness and smoothness. You get sugar-free, antioxidant rich chocolate from a premium brand that promises taste and satisfaction. Buy the giant 192 gm pack of this premium special dark chocolate on Amazon for ₹ 799.00.
14. Bogatchi 99.99% Dark Handcrafted Chocolate
This gluten free chocolate from Bogatchi is sugar-free and 99.99% rich in cocoa content. Suitable for vegetarians, the handcrafted chocolate has an intense and premium taste of dark chocolate and melts easily in the mouth giving a delightful feel. You can buy the 80 gm pack of this chocolate on Amazon for just ₹ 369.00 and enjoy your day.
15. Chocholik Belgium 70% Dark Cranberry Chocolate Bar
The wild intensity of dark chocolate blended with the fruity taste of cranberry is a perfect treat for dark chocolate fans. The combination of contrasting flavours is something that not everyone can master. However, with this chocolate from Chocholik you can satiate your cravings for a fine blend of fruity and chocolatey. Buy the 100 gm pack of this chocolate on Amazon for ₹ 399.00 and uplift your senses.
16. Mason & Co. Intense Dark Organic Chocolate
If you are allergic to ingredients such as soya, gluten, etc. and still want to enjoy a good dark chocolate bar then this option from Mason & Co might be the one for you. On top of that, the intense 85% dark chocolate contains palm sugar which is deemed healthier as compared to white refined sugar. Crafted in India this chocolate is suitable for vegans also. On Urban Platter a pack of 2 (60 gm each) of this chocolate is available for ₹ 590.00.
17. Amul 99% Cacao Ultimate Dark Chocolate
If you want to relish the taste of dark chocolate without having to burn a hole in your pocket, then this dark chocolate from Amul is for you. Without any added sugar, this chocolate is ideal for even those who are very conscious about their weight and diet plan. Experience the full bodied taste of rich cocoa with this ultimate dark chocolate from Amul. You can buy a 125 gm pack of this chocolate on Amazon for ₹ 300.00.
18. Zevic 70% Belgian Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate
Belgian, dark and sugar-free is the trifecta that caught our eye in this brand of chocolate. Suitable even for the vegetarians, this chocolate bar is 70% cocoa giving you a true taste of dark chocolate. Plant based sweetener and organically sources ingredients ensure that you get the best taste without feeling the guilt of eating chocolate. This intense dark chocolate from Zevic is available in a 40 gm pack for ₹ 174.00 on Amazon.
19. Nepenthe Ditch the Guilt 60% Cacao Dark Chocolate
Ideal for keto diets and those of you who are working towards losing your weight, this dark chocolate bar is high in protein content. It has a plant based sweetener such as stevia along with a dash of tropical super fruit. What impressed us the most is how they air roast the cocoa in their proprietary roaster to get that perfect taste and maintain the health component. You can buy a 60 gm pack of this 60% dark chocolate bar on Amazon for ₹ 145.00 after a discount that is running currently.
20. Menakao Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate
The USP of this 80% dark chocolate is the Madagascan cocoa beans that have been granted “Fine Cocoa” label by the ICCO (UK). Cocoa beans are sourced from a single origin making the cocoa taste intense. The vegan, soy free and gluten free chocolate bar is rich in flavanols, polyphenols with the fruity flavour of acai berries and blueberries. You can buy a 150 gm pack of this chocolate on Amazon for ₹ 860.00 after discount.
21. Godiva 72% Cocoa Belgian Dark Chocolate
The true Belgian taste of this dark chocolate is what will appeal to you the most. The brand itself is more than 100 years old and has stayed true to its commitment of producing some of the finest dark chocolates. Rich in taste and smooth on the tongue, this Belgian dark chocolate from Godiva is worth a try. You can buy the 90 gm pack of this chocolate on Amazon for ₹ 398.00.
22. Toblerone Dark Chocolate
The deep intensity of dark chocolate with a dash of honey and chewy nuts is what makes this dark chocolate from Toblerone unique. Toblerone is known for their fine blend of contrasting flavours with the chocolates and this one will not let you down either. A vegetarian product, this dark chocolate from Toblerone is a perfect treat to those of you who like dark chocolates with a twist. Buy the 360 gm pack of this chocolate from Amazon for ₹ 699.00.
23. LuvIt Luscious 56% Dark Love Delights
These heart-shaped dark chocolates are one to heart for and worth a try. The smoothness and rich texture of this chocolate is something that you are going to love. Made from simple ingredients, the taste of this chocolate is true in its core. Apart from the smooth and rich texture that it provides, the heart shape and perfect packaging of this chocolate makes it worth gifting to someone. You can relish the taste of this chocolate by buying the 180 gm pack on Amazon for just ₹ 199.00.
24. ASAP Almond and Dark Chocolate Granola Bars
Not exactly a dark chocolate but this granola bar from ASAP is a try-worthy combination of almonds and dark chocolate. An energy booster bar, a single serving is a rich blend of healthy ingredients like sesame, peanuts, processing wheat and so on. On the top of that dark chocolate enhances the intensity of the taste and almonds gives it a nutty flavour. You can buy this dark chocolate treat on Amazon for ₹ 513.00.
25. Queen & Bee – 70% Dark Chocolate Combo Pack of 3
Relish the 70% dark chocolates from Queen & Bee with a hint of different flavours like pink Himalayan salt, espresso and plain with this gift pack assortment. The 70% dark chocolate in these bars is made from the finest cocoa and on the top of that you get unique flavours like pink salt. Also suitable for vegetarians, these chocolate bars are just perfect to break the taste monotony and add a burst of flavours. Try all the three bars available on Amazon for ₹ 820.00.
26. Sugar Free D'lite Dark Rich Cocoa Chocolate Bar, 80 gm (Pack of 3)
If your chocolate has no sugar at all then 50% dark is a good combination. You would wonder how the sweetness is rendered to this chocolate. It is the polyol known as maltitol that has been added as a sweetener to this premium chocolate. These chocolates include dietary fibres and are tooth-friendly. D’lite range of chocolates are very popular among Indians and therefore you can find this chocolate bar in almost all leading stores. Buy the 80 gm pack 3 of this chocolate bar on Amazon for ₹ 567.00.
27. Fabelle Ganache – Rich, Luxury Dark Chocolates Gift Box, 124 gm (Pack of 20 Cubes)
Bite size delights packed with rich dark chocolate, Fabelle Ganache magically melts away in your mouth. Made from Ghana cocoa beans, the taste of these Ganache bites are enhanced by the fresh cream and butter. Apart from the taste we also liked the packaging making these luxury chocolates a great gifting item. A 124 gm pack contains 20 cubes of ganache and can be bought on Amazon for ₹ 925.00.
28. Menakao 63% Single-Origin Dark Chocolate with Orange & Cranberries, 75 gm
You are never tired of tasting the dash of fruits in your dark chocolates and this dark chocolate from Menakao is just that. Since it is 63% dark, the taste of chocolate is rich yet does not overpower the fruity hints. What makes this bar even more wholesome is the tart dried fruits that leave an even more soft notes of fruits. You can buy 75 gm pack of this delightfully tasty dark chocolate from the House of Mandara for ₹ 365.00.
29. Vit n Rich Almond Dark Chocolate
This brand has a range of flavours that you can try from, but their classic dark chocolate with almond is worth a mention. A magical treat for the chocolate lovers, this dark chocolate bar from Vit n Rich contains vitamins, probiotics, milk calcium therefore offering a boost of energy when you need it the most. The nutty flavour of almonds that provides the rich taste and smooth texture of the chocolate is something that you are going to love. Having a bar like this with you ensures that your hunger pangs are taken care of even on your busiest days. This chocolate bar is available in a 100 gm pack on Soonya for ₹ 474.00.
30. Dark Chocolate - Cranberry Coated with 70% Cocoa
Tangy cranberries coated with the rich and creamy dark chocolate is surely the true love for all those chocolate buffs out there. This 100% vegetarian, gluten free, lactose free chocolate bar is not just delicious but is also anti-oxidant rich. You can buy this chocolate bar on Vvegano for just ₹ 358.00.
Buyer's Guide to Identify the Best Dark Chocolate
Now that you have an exhaustive list of the dark chocolates available in India to relish on, there are a few points to consider when buying a dark chocolate. Let us dive into each one of these factors and help you find the perfect dark chocolate for your taste:
Cocoa Beans:
In the first read, this one sounds like a no-brainer as dark chocolates are all about the intensity of the cocoa. However, a deeper look into this factor suggests that the sourcing of cocoa beans also matters. There are various factors such as the region of sourcing, the method of drying, etc. that shape a perfect bean. You will feel the difference in the taste as well as the texture. Therefore, do read about the cocoa beans on the packaging of the chocolate.Grown In Shades:
The condition in which the cocoa beans are grown define the taste and texture of the chocolate. Shade grown cocoa plants are grown in the rainforests as the cocoa plants stretch and contract according to the amount of sunlight they need. This is the organic way the cocoa farmers grow the beans. The chocolates made from these cocoa beans are always better than the one that are sun bleached.Manufacturing Process:
Standard manufacturing and quality control process is what you should look for when selecting a dark chocolate. It is not just the cocoa beans that make the difference but the entire process from picking the right beans to the final product is essential for deciding what the product will taste like.Minimal Ingredients:
Too complex assortment of ingredients compromise the taste of chocolate and highlights the other flavours. While selecting a dark chocolate you can go for contrasting flavours but then too many flavours will confuse you. Therefore, minimal flavours are best when selecting a dark chocolate.Less Sugar Content:
Lesser the sugar the more intense the flavour of the dark chocolate you will get. A lot of dark chocolate brands have a lot of sugar content which in turn compromises the flavour of the chocolate, giving it a substandard taste.Find out Your Favourite from This List!
So, here is our humble list of dark chocolates available in India that you should try along with the suggestions for selecting the best product.
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Do Your Research Before Buying Your Dark Chocolate
As would have been evident by now it is important to keep certain small but important factors to keep in mind when buying dark chocolates so that you can identify the one which is perfect for you. We hope this BP Guide would have helped you familiarise yourself with everything there is to know about dark chocolates. Share your experiences with us and stay connected with us for more such engaging content.