Bitter Chocolate, Lavender, and Banana Tea Loaf

Ingredients and Weight:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (bitter chocolate)
• 1/2 cup chopped dried lavender flowers
• 1/2 cup ripe banana chunks
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract or banana essence

Preparation Time: 2 hours (including preparation and baking time)

Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes at 350°F (177°C)

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a loaf pan with baking paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, lavender, banana chunks, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total) Calories: 350kcal | Fat: 16g | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 6g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 30g

Dish Characteristics:

• Unique combination of bitter chocolate, lavender, and banana flavors.
• Moist and dense texture with a slightly bitter chocolatey flavor from the cocoa powder and dried lavender flowers.
• Delicious served warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.

User Comments:

1. "The combination of bitter chocolate and lavender was unexpected but really delicious!" - John Doe
2. "The banana chunks added a nice touch of sweetness to balance the bitterness of the chocolate." - Jane Smith
3. "This is a great dish for a special occasion. The loaf is so rich and flavorful." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use good quality cocoa powder for the best bitter chocolate flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter to prevent a tough loaf.
• For best results, use ripe bananas for the chunks.
• Store the loaf in a tightly wrapped container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.