Show 521, April 15, 2023: K + M Chocolate, Napa, with General Manager Hallot Parson

Hallot Parson of K + M Chocolate

K + M Chocolate and K + M Extra Virgin Chocolate (Napa-based) is the result of an unusual collaboration between Chef Thomas Keller and Armando Manni. As the first and only American-born chef to hold multiple three-star ratings from the prestigious Michelin Guide, Thomas Keller has established a reputation for excellence unparalleled in American cuisine. In Tuscany, Armando Manni has forged a similar reputation for quality by producing super-antioxidant, extra-virgin olive oil.”

“Together, they have spent the past seven years on a unique mission: crafting a chocolate from the bean unlike any we have seen before. They have collaborated with the University of Florence to develop a new methodology to preserve the naturally occurring antioxidants in the cocoa beans. This proprietary process produces delicious, complex chocolate that draws the full potential out of every bean.”

“True to Chef Thomas Keller’s reputation for unparalleled excellence in American cuisine, K + M Chocolate’s new bean-to-bar K + M Chocolate collection reflects the Chef’s exacting quality standards and meticulous attention to detail. These single-origin chocolate bars emphasize nuanced tasting notes while custom ground beans and unique ingredients collide for whimsical flavor expressions. From Truffle Fries to 68% Dark Carenero, there’s a little something sweet for everyone. Each bar of K + M Chocolate is roasted, ground and molded by hand in small batches in Napa Valley, California. Packaged in recycled paper and compostable foil.”

K + M Extra Virgin Chocolate (the original product) employs a unique production methodology and the addition of a small amount of heart-healthy MANNI organic extra-virgin olive oil which infuses their bean-to-bar chocolate with its signature texture while boosting its antioxidant properties. The cocoa bean is naturally high in antioxidants that not only provide much of the aroma and flavor of chocolate but also offer a wide range of health benefits. Standard methods used today for turning cocoa beans into chocolate may result in the loss of 60 percent or more of those antioxidants.”

They also create a Classic Hot Chocolate mix (properly rich and decadent) as well as three additional flavors of a premium drinking chocolates.

The General Manager of K + M Chocolate, Hallot Parson, is our guest.

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