as featured in Oprah Magazine
April was a pretty crazy month for me. My dad’s health was diminishing rapidly and I felt called to step away from my business for an extended time period so that I could be with him. I booked a one-way ticket to Colorado and planted myself in his world. Meals with the residents in his assisted living facility literally brought me to my knees. Being a food lover and knowing how much my dad appreciated a beautiful meal, my heart cracked open when I glimpsed the food on his plate. Needless to say I brought him many home cooked meals.
About five weeks into my stay I received an email from the health editor of Oprah Magazine asking me for some super-simple dessert recipes that would pair well with breakfast fare. We spent about two weeks going back and forth with various options. My dad was “super sampler” along with his table mates.
Needless to say, I was over-the-moon excited about this opportunity. The recipes can be found in the August 2012 edition but I thought you might enjoy seeing the original recipe which contains cacao nibs and “the cluster.” Feel free to substitute chocolate chips if you don’t have any cacao nibs on hand.
Banana Pear Pudding with Cacao Nib Clusters
4 ripe pears
4 ripe bananas (May be peeled sliced and frozen ahead of time for a cooler, creamier mouth feel.)
cacao nibs
cacao nib clusters
Combine pears and bananas in high-speed blender. Place pudding in small bowls and sprinkle with cacao nibs and a few cacao nib clusters for a real treat!
I’m also happy to report that during that visit we moved my dad to a facility that was MUCH better equipped to meet his changing needs. And, his new home has exceptional food. My dad has gained nine pounds and he’s happily eating…chocolate for breakfast.
Sue Ann, this sounds fresh and delicious! The cocoa nibs and “cluster” must add an over-the-top crunch and flavor. So glad to hear about your Dad’s new surroundings and appetite — what a relief for you and what a treat for him. And… congratulations on being featured in Oprah Magazine. WOW!
What a sweet story about your Dad. Congrats on Oprah!
How wonderful that you were able to spend so much time with your father. While I’m sure his new surroundings are improving his health, I’d bet he’d say it was time with you and your delicious meals that helped the most.
Loved seeing your recipes in both my copy of “O” and on the website. Women everywhere will be thanking you for your healthy chocolate options.
Thank you for sharing the story of your visit to Colorado (where I am!) and your dad – I hope he continues to be well and be cared for very well.
Love your recipes, will be trying them and adding MILA to boost the nutrition even more!
Be Well
Jodi
Congrats on this amazing opportunity. I will be sure to check out the Aug. Edition. I really really hope your father feels better soon. My mom has been very sick this year, so I know how challenging it can be. It is sooooo nice that you can be with him. My mom and I are on separate coasts so the distance is tough. I will visit her again next month though. Hang in there and I will be thinking of you and sending healing warmth and light.