~ * ZINC ? * ~

Zinc is vital for liver function, is involved in every energy reaction in the body and plays a key role in alcohol detoxification. Red (lean) meat contains high levels of zinc. FOR vegetarians, legumes are good, but for better zinc absorption, add the proteins such as yoghurt or eggs (preferably free range or barn laid) at the same meal!

* PECAN "brownies" (AUSTRALIAN style) ..

MAKES about 20.
Prep and Cook Time 40 minutes.

250g. unsalted butter, chopped
200g. dark eating chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped coarsely
2/3 cup (70g.) cocoa powder
1/2 cup (75g.) plain flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 & 2/3 cups (370g.) raw sugar
1 & 1/4 cups (150g.) pecans, toasted, chopped coarsely
4 eggs, beaten lightly
1/2 cup (60g.) pecans, extra

1. PREHEAT the oven to 180deg.C (*160deg.C fan-forced). LINE the base and long sides of a 20cm. x 30cm. slice pan with baking paper, extending paper 5cm. over the sides.

2. PLACE the butter and chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl set over a medium saucepan of simmering water. Stir until smooth.

3. MEANWHILE, sift cocoa, flour and baking powder into a medium bowl and stir in the sugar and chopped pecans. Stir chocolate mixture and eggs into flour mixture until well combined (the mix will be a shiny thick BATTER). SPREAD mixture into the pan; top with EXTRA pecans.

4. BAKE for about 30 minutes. COOL in the pan before turning-out. CUT into SQUARES (or fingers?). DUST with SIFTED icing-sugar, IF desired.

ANY nuts can be used for this recipe.

*Suitable to freeze. Butter mixture suitable to microwave.