Belarus Kartoshka Cocoa Balls are an indulgent treat from Belarus that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the unexpected ingredient of mashed potatoes. These sweet, chocolatey balls feature a soft and chewy interior with a crunchy chocolate coating, creating a unique dessert experience. Perfect for chocolate lovers, these cocoa balls are gluten-free and easy to make with a few simple ingredients.
Kartoshka, meaning "potato" in Belarusian, is a traditional Eastern European confection that cleverly uses mashed potatoes to achieve a moist and tender texture. Despite its name and unusual main ingredient, the dessert is entirely chocolatey and sweet. This creative approach originated in Belarus and has become a beloved treat throughout Eastern Europe, showcasing the region's knack for innovative and comforting desserts.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles or grated chocolate
Instructions:
1. Peel and boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. Mash the potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool completely.
3. In a bowl, mix cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Stir in the mashed potatoes until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
5. Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a ping-pong ball.
6. Roll each ball in chocolate sprinkles or grated chocolate until fully coated.
7. Place the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least an hour to set.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes:
- Ensure potatoes are well-mashed to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Adjust the texture with extra cocoa powder or melted butter if needed.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 medium-sized potatoes
- Calories: Approximately 200 calories (for two medium potatoes)
- Carbohydrates: About 45 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin C and B6
- Minerals: Good source of potassium and magnesium
Nutritional Benefit: Potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C for immune support and potassium for heart health. They are also a source of complex carbohydrates, which offer sustained energy.
2. 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Calories: Approximately 50 calories
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of Vitamin B12
- Minerals: Rich in iron, magnesium, and manganese
Nutritional Benefit: Cocoa powder is high in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which can help improve heart health. It also provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
3. 1/2 cup sugar
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories
- Carbohydrates: 100 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
Nutritional Benefit: Sugar provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie content and lack of essential nutrients.
4. 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 45 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium and phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Butter adds richness and flavor to recipes. It is a source of Vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. However, it is high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
5. 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Calories: Approximately 6 calories
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of B vitamins
- Minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium and iron
Nutritional Benefit: Vanilla extract adds flavor with minimal calories. It also contains small amounts of antioxidants and may contribute to overall flavor enhancement.
6. 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles or grated chocolate
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 9-12 grams
- Sodium: 10-30 mg
- Cholesterol: 0-10 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of Vitamin A and B vitamins
- Minerals: Contains iron and magnesium
Nutritional Benefit: Chocolate sprinkles or grated chocolate add flavor and a small amount of antioxidants. They also provide some essential minerals, but should be used in moderation due to their sugar and fat content.
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