Mendiant is the French word for scraps of chocolate, melted and sprinkled with bits of dried fruit and nuts, typically served around Christmas. Derived from the Latin root for “begging” and I know my whole family gobbled the up and was begging for more!
Ridiculously easy and taste amazing, but Mendiants are a lifesaver when you need a last-minute treat to serve, give as a hostess gift, or food gift for the chocolate-lover . . . but have almost nothing in the pantry.
Use traditional or sugar-free dark chocolate chips.
All you need for this easy chocolate candy recipes is a 12 oz. package of dark chocolate chips (use sugar-free chocolate chips for a low-carb chocolate candy recipe) and a variety of toppings that you likely already have stashed away.
Use up whatever little “bits” of dried fruit, nuts and extras you have in the pantry!
My Mendiants were topped with a variety of eight simple ingredients swiped from my pantry – not much of anything is needed, just a tablespoon or so of each. I used chopped nuts like pecans, Marcona almonds, and pistachios; chopped dried apricots, cherries and apples; and even had toasted quinoa and coconut for sprinkling. Any other kind of nut, seed or dried fruit also works.
Plus, try cacao nibs, dried citrus peels, coarse salt sprinkles, crushed coffee beans and whatever else you think pairs well with chocolate. If you are making keto mendiant, then nuts, seeds and spices will be your best picks paired with sugar-free chocolate chips.
Pour chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave at 50% power in 30-second increments (stirring between each blast), until completely melted, smooth and glossy. It took me 3 minutes, for reference. Take care not to over-microwave or allow any drips of water to get in the chocolate.
Add the toppings while the chocolate is still gooey.
Dollop out chocolate in approximate 1.5 tablespoon portions on a parchment-lined baking sheet. It should spread out into at least a 2” circle. If chocolate begins to cool, keeping it from spreading out properly, use the back of a spoon to encourage.
While mendiant chocolate is still gooey, sprinkle with desired toppings. I think 3 types of topping per chocolate is ideal. Stick in fridge for 30 minutes to firm up. Serve or package as desired. Makes approximately 24 fruit and nut studded chocolate coins.
Mendiant – Dried Fruit and Nut Chocolate Candy (Low Carb / Keto Option)
Prep Time
15mins
cooling
30mins
Total Time
45mins
Quick and easy, these yummy chocolate candies just need a bag of chocolate chips and a couple tablespoons each of dried fruit, nuts, seeds or whatever other ingredients you like paired with chocolate. Use sugar-free chocolate chips for a low-carb, keto-friendly treat.
Course:
Dessert
Cuisine:
French
Keyword:
candy, chocolate, christmas, holiday
Servings: 24pieces
Ingredients
12 ouncesdark chocolate chipstraditional or sugar-free
1 to 2Tbsp EACH of 6 to 10 toppings like: nuts, seeds, dried fruits, toasted quinoa, chia seeds, cacao nibs, citrus peel, even pretzels or potato chips. Chop, crush or dice until everything small-sized for topping
Instructions
Pour chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave at 50% power in 30-second increments (stirring between each blast), until completely melted, smooth and glossy. It took me 3 minutes, for reference. Take care not to over-microwave or allow any drips of water to get in the chocolate.
Dollop out chocolate in approximate 1.5 tablespoon portions on a parchment-lined baking sheet. It should spread out into at least a 2” circle. If chocolate begins to cool, keeping it from spreading out properly, use the back of a spoon to encourage.
While chocolate is still gooey, sprinkle with desired toppings. I think 3 types of topping per chocolate is ideal. Stick in fridge for 30 minutes to firm up. Serve or package as desired.
Maple Mustard Halibut with Pecan-Quinoa Topping (in the air fryer or conventional oven) is ridiculously easy and absolutely delicious weeknight meal or special occasion supper.
First, I started with wild hook-and-line-caught Alaskan halibut. This hearty white fish is a personal favorite with tender flakes, a delicate flavor yet meaty texture that holds its own in any recipe. However, other firm fish can be used such as cod or salmon.
Next up an easy smear of stone-ground mustard mixed with maple syrup, just enough to make a layer between the fish and halibut topping of ground pecans and quinoa that crusts up so nice and crunchy while baking.
For a time-saving convenience, I keep a bag of COOKED quinoa in my freezer for recipes like this or to sprinkle in salads or soups. See my quinoa meal prep post HERE.
As far as a quick fish dinner, this pecan-quinoa crusted halibut recipe wins taking only about 10 minutes on 400F degrees. I use a toaster-oven style air fryer (the Omni Plus XL Toaster Oven – Air Fryer from Instant) because I like the spacious interior and front-opening functionality (it’s like a smaller-version of my big oven) but a basket-style air-fryer will work too.
If you are cooking in a conventional oven, the temperature remains the same, but you’ll just cook up to 5 minutes longer (keep an eye on it because if the pecan quinoa topping for fish starts to get too brown, you’ll need to loosely cover with a swatch of foil.
Such an easy fish recipe using halibut and nutritious too, with 275 calories, 7.7g protein, 11.4g net carb, and 40.1g protein per serving.
Deliciously flakey and moist with a satisfyingly crunchy topping, this easy halibut recipe only takes 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook in an air-fryer.
Course:
dinner, dinner, entree
Keyword:
15 minutes, air fryer, fish, halibut
Servings: 2servings
Calories: 275kcal
Ingredients
10 to 12oz fresh halibutor other firm fish like cod or salmon
1 1/2tbsp.stone ground mustard
1 1/2tbsp.real maple syrup
¼cupfinely chopped raw pecans
½cupcooked quinoa
1/2tsp.salt
½tsp.ground pepper
2tbsp.minced fresh parsley
Olive oil spray
Instructions
Pat halibut dry with paper towel. In small bowl, mix together mustard and syrup.
Slather mustard mixture on top only portion of fish. In small bowl, mix together pecans, cooked quinoa, salt, pepper and parsley.
Spoon onto top of fish and use hands to pat down into a crust, extended as far out to the edges of fish as possible.
Lightly spray top of pecan-quinoa mixture on fish with olive oil.
Pre-heat air fryer to 400F degrees.*
Transfer fish by large spatula to air fryer basket.
Air fry for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, until fish flakes and coating on top is turning lightly brown.
Remove immediately from air fryer and serve. With optional prepared honey mustard sauce or other condiment of choice.
(=*for conventional oven, heat to 400F and bake for approx. 14 to 18 minutes).
This post is sponsored by National Watermelon Promotion Board.
Watermelon warms the soul and spirit in any season! Simmer a pot of Mulled Watermelon Apple Cider for friends and family this holiday season, it’s a hot holiday punch that is naturally sweet and delicious.
Bejeweled with fruit and fragrant with seasonal spices, this easy-to-make hot punch is features watermelon juice. Fresh watermelon juice is available for purchase in the produce department of many larger grocery stores, or make your own by blending cubed watermelon and straining off the pulp. Check out Watermelon.org for a great demo on how to make watermelon juice.
This warm holiday punch is primarily watermelon juice, an amazing fresh juice that offers vitamin C, lycopene, l-citrulline, and other beneficial nutrients. I also added spiced apple cider and always use the fresh, no-added-sugar, 100% juice cider from the chilled section of my market.
Check out the Pinterest Video Demo at: <<LINK>>
For a show-stopping presentation (and to make a drink that you can also snack on), add a generous amount of fruit to the pot including diced watermelon, fresh cranberries, pears and apples. Is it a fruit salad, beverage or both? You decide!!!
While simmering on the stove top, add whole spices such as cinnamon sticks, star anise and whole cloves. Watermelon and cinnamon make magic together, you can even just sprinkle a little on a wedge for an instant flavor experience. Also, allspice, nutmeg and cardamon are additional spices that would work well in this hot watermelon drink, use all mentioned or any combination you prefer! Used frequently in in hot beverages, these warming, aromatic spices are called “mulling spices.” Add smaller bits, such as cloves and allspice, to a tea ball so that they can be easily strained out before serving. However, keep the whole cinnamon sticks in – they make fun stirrers!
Completely optional, but a nice add-in to this watermelon apple cider is a bit of brandy – it just blends in so nicely with the fruit juices and spices!
Pro tip: For a lingering brunch gathering or holiday open house, keep the watermelon punch warmed for hours in a slow-cooker set on low.
For more ways to enjoy watermelon during the holiday season, including more watermelon beverages and pairing suggestions perfect for a grazing tray, visit Watermelon.org .
Watermelon is wonderful in every season! Ladle mugs full of this warm watermelon punch that is bejeweled with fruit and steeped with mulling spices like cinnamon and cloves!
Mulling spices of choice*including cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves, grated nutmeg, cardamon
1cupbrandyoptional
2cupsdiced watermelon
1small applesliced crosswise and quartered
1small pearsliced crosswise and quartered
1cupfresh cranberries
Instructions
In large pot or slow cooker, add watermelon juice and apple cider.
Add mulling spices. Cinnamon sticks and big pieces of star anise can be used whole, but smaller spices should be placed in a tea ball for easy discarding after simmering.
Bring juices to low simmer, for 15 minutes, allowing spices to steep. If using slow cooker, heat on high for 1 hour, then reduce heat to warm for serving.
If desired, add brandy in the last few minutes of cooking. Drink is equally delicious without alcohol, option is yours.
Ladle out and pour into mugs.
Recipe Notes
*During the holiday season, “mulling spice” blends are sometimes available in the bulk or spice aisle of store for convenience
Making Cranberry Orange Pecan Sheet Pan Pancakes is the perfect solution to holiday morning madness! Say goodbye to being sequestered in the kitchen, standing over a hot griddle flipping hot cakes endlessly while family and guests are having all the fun.
Just whip up the cranberry pecan pancake batter in minutes (or even the night before) and pour into a rimmed baking sheet and pop into the oven for 25 minutes. After that, your work is done! Easy pancake recipes using mix are one of my favorite Christmas morning breakfast ideas
I used a low carb pancake mix from Nush, it makes this type of sweet breakfast doable for keto, low-carb, sugar-free, Paleo, and gluten-free diets. However, three cups of any type pancake mix could be substituted.
These low-carb sheet pan pancakes feature cranberries to add a sweet-tart flavor and a pop of bejeweled color. A cup of raw cranberries has about 8g net carb, so spread across a keto cranberry pancake recipe with more than 12 servings, the result is almost insignificant. HOWEVER, do not substitute dried cranberries, they are more carbohydrate concentrated (100g+ per cup) and can have added sugars.
For a traditional recipe, some might add orange juice to the recipe. But, a bit of fresh orange peel removed using a citrus zester on top provides all the citrus-y goodness while keeping calories and carbs much, much lower. In a pinch, I also swear by Valencia Orange Peel from McCormick’s – it’s shelf stable, always read, and can be stored in the spice cabinet.
Are these cranberry orange sheet pan pancakes healthy and nutritious? I’m glad you asked – because YES, they are. Each serving has 336 calories, 29g fat, 10.7g total carbs (4.3g fiber, 0.3g sugar, 6.4g net carb), and protein 10.6g. I like to serve with some warm sugar-free maple syrup and sometimes even a little whipped cream!
Cranberry Orange Pecan Sheet Pan Pancakes | Low Carb, Gluten-free
Prep Time
5mins
Cook Time
25mins
Total Time
30mins
Minimize holiday morning stress with this easy sheet pan pancake recipe! In celebration of the season, it’s bursting with sweet tart cranberries and orange zest. Prep to plate in under 30minutes, and is made with a low-carb pancake mix (or traditional mix, too) for added convenience. Feed a crowd, or meal prep and store in single-portion servings in the freezer of busy day breakfast.
Servings: 12servings
Ingredients
12.3ouncepackage low carb pancake mixI used Nush. Recipe should work with appox 3 cups of any other type pancake mix
½cupvanilla collagen hydrolysateor protein powder
2 2/3cupswater
1 ¼cupsfresh cranberries
½cuppecan pieces
1tbsp.orange zest
Optional: syrupsextra nuts, whipped cram
Instructions
Pre-heat oven to 350F.
Mix together pancake mix and collagen hydrolysate powder.
Add water and stir until combined (a little lumpy better than over-stirring).
Mix in cranberries.
Pour into approximate 13” x 18” rimmed baking sheet
Sprinkle with pecan pieces and orange zest.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until set and top is turning golden. Remove and let cool in pan for 5 minutes.
Slice into 12 “squares,” and serve with syrup of choice and any extra toppings (or eat plain). Can be meal-prepped by freezing in single portions and thawed and reheating when ready.
.
Recipe Notes
Per serving: 336 calories, 29g fat, 10.7g total carbs (4.3g fiber, 0.3g sugar, 6.4g net carb), protein 10.6g
The holiday season is quickly approaching and you may be wondering what to get the endurance athlete on your list — especially the runners! We have complied a dozen affordable runner gift ideas that would be appropriate to give to marathon, trail and obstacle course fans — and sure to be well-received!
It’s the safest bet to let runners buy their own shoes and expensive gear (it’s like a complicated science you don’t want to dive into), but these thoughtful runner accessories, books and nutrition products are sure to please everyone!
Trailblazer Ponytail Hat from Trail Heads: Did you know up to 10% of body heat is lost through the head?! Keeping your noggin, neck and ears warm on winter runs, hiking, skiing or other adventuring is essential and the super innovative Trail Blazer Ponytail Hat makes it stylish and convenient. For me, a major perk was that this running hat is “ponytail compatible.” Yup, you can slip a high pony right through a discreet little slit on the back of the hat and let it fly free – so cute! Also, versatile drop-down ear warmers (which also lay on the back of the neck some) offer protection and can be folded back up as the day warms up. Made of super soft, comfy fleece with a brim to keep sun out of eyes. Machine washable! A very useful gift for marathoners this cold weather season.
Convertible Running Gloves from Trail Heads: The 2-in-1 versatility of these cold weather gloves is so useful — the gloves transform conveniently into waterproof mittens for extra protection. When you don’t want the mitten part, just tuck into the pocket on the cuff. Speaking of cuffs, this comfortable cuff is generously cut, offering enough length to stay tucked under a jacket and protect wrists from the elements. Phone addicts will be happy to know that the thumb and forefinger are made with touchscreen compatible fabric. Features a bit of fleece for a soft brown or nose wipe, this convertible glove can also be machine washed. Convertible Running Gloves available in Men’s and Women’s sizes. A great gift for trail runners this holiday season.
Hybrid Water Shoe from CrossKix.com– The ultimate hybrid shoe takes you from your favorite water recreation (boating, toobing, creek stomping, beach, waterparks) and also multi-functional for workouts, yoga and even running! Even if it’s a little too cold right now to be running around in these, they are perfect to wear to indoor swim practice, the sauna, and the gym in the interim. Also, CrossKix have become my go-to shoe for gardening and après obstacle course race because I can just rinse them off when muddy. Made from soft foam composite for comfort and convenience, great drainage, 100% water submergible, breathable, light, cushioned, unisex-sized, and also available for kids. This pair (the 2.0 in Yellowjacket color) styled with an adjustable instep strap, other colors and styles available.
Kilo Endurance Sunglasses from Tifosi. I love Tifosi sunglasses because they perform 110%, are stylish and affordable. The Kilo is my new go-to model and make a great gift for endurance athletes. This Grilamid TR-90 frame endurance sunglass is perfect for any running or cycling enthusiast and guaranteed to be your new favorite pair of shades. Lightweight and durable with hydrophilic rubber nosepieces, they’re the perfect choice for long rides or runs. The polycarbonate lenses are shatterproof and vented to prevent fogging while keeping you protected at all times. Kilo in Crystal Smoke comes with three lenses – Clarion Yellow / AC Red / Clear – so that you can go the distance! Other Kilo frame colors and sunglass styles available at Tifosi.com
Apex Protein Snacks: Stuff those stockings (and backpacks for hiking) with the deliciously nourishing meat sticks from Apex Protein Snacks. I’m all about getting enough protein through the day, and a meat snack that doesn’t need refrigeration is a convenient way to do that on the go! A great snack when road-tripping to a race, camping, backpacking, adventuring, or just on the go all day running errands. These low-carb, high-protein snacks come in a variety of formats — bars, bites, biltong, and sticks. And, flavors (MOST of which are 0 sugar) include Kansas City BBQ Flavor, Jalapeno and Cheese, Teriyaki, Jalapeno flavor, and original! Beef, venison, elk, boar and bison! SHOP HERE
Jaybird Vista:It’s incredible something this small can go this big. The Jaybird Vista wireless earbuds are my go-to for everything from gym workouts to trail running. They are rugged and “earth-proof” and offer premium sound that goes wherever I do. Everything fits into neat little case that gives a charging case between wearings. When fully charged, the charging case offers up to 10 hours of additional playback time before you have to recharge the case. So, if in a hurry, you can sick the buds in the case for 5 minutes and get an hour of playback time granted! Also, new this year are the Vista 2, that feature all this same great stuff plus Active Noise Cancellation for focus and SurroundSense for spatial awareness and safety. Shop JayBird HERE.
Feeding the Frasers: Family Favorite Recipes Made to Feed the Five-Time CrossFit Games Champion, Mat Fraser. This comprehensive cookbook for athletes features 240 pages filled with 100 terrific recipes of high quality delicious food that promote balance, togetherness, indulgence, and athletic recovery. Written Sammy Moniz, wife of 5-time CrossFit Champion Mat Fraser, to share how she feeds the greatest champion in the sport. But not just for CrossFitters . . .this cookbook as delicious, nourishing meals for anyone with an active lifestyle! I was lucky enough to get an advance copy and the recipes are amazing! Preorder on Amazon, it ships on Jan 25, 2022.
Orange Mud Transition Wrap Extreme – Waterproof Changing Towel and Seat Cover:This very handy product from Orange Mud protects your car seat from sweat, mud and the general funk after a trail run, obstacle course run or sweaty gym session. Upgraded and now waterproof, nothing will make it through to ruin your seats. Also, can be used as a transition area wrap for cleaning up and changing or lay down on the ground like a blanket to catch a quick nap after your race! Microfiber cover measures 30” x 60”, is machine washable, and is available in several fun colors. Sign up for Orange Mud emails and save 10%!
Muscle for Life:Get Lean, Strong & Healthy at Any Age by Michael Matthews. From the best-selling fitness author of Bigger Leaner Stronger and The Shredded Chef, this book reveals a science-based blueprint for eating and exercising that anyone can follow at any age and fitness level. Based on time-proven principles produced by decades of hands-on experience and thousands of hours of scientific research, Muscle for Life will give you a plan for transforming your body faster than you ever thought possible, including how to conquer the “mental game” how to optimize your body composition with strength training, and how to eat “flexibly” and break free of dieting. Available for pre-order on Amazon (ships 1/11/2022)
Handful: Gear up in fashionable fitness wear Handful, one of my favorite companies. I’ve been a super-fan of their bras for 10 YEARS, they flatter (not flatten) and are available in styles for all shapes. You can read my entire post dedicated to Handful Bras and fitness wear HERE. Use code THEFITFORK10 to save 10%!
Feetures Socks:The best running socks EVER, hands down. Targeted compression, seamless, no-blisters and a variety of styles and colors for men and women. I personally love and wear, the Elite No-Show and Mini Crew and the knee-high Graduated Compression.
Energon Performance Gummies from Seattle Gummy Company– Easy to pack in a fuel belt or shorts pocket, these pre and post workout gummies are easy to consume on the go and are easily digestible and won’t upset your stomach like other chews and gels. The POWER UP formula offers controlled-release carbohydrates and caffeine and other active ingredients (like ginseng and vitamin B) to boost and prolong energy levels, and keep you going stronger longer. The RECOVER formula feature BCAA and other important nutrients to help to rapidly recharge muscles, facilitate energy storage, and reduce soreness for accelerated recovery. Use code THEFITFORK10 to save 10% (and is combinable with other offers).
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission for sales generated, however price to you remains the same. Thank you for helping to offset operating expenses for The Fit Fork.
