Hi! My name is Stephanie Zonis, and welcome to the July-August 2000 edition of "For Chocolate Lovers Only". Each month, you'll find recipes, tips, and recommendations on chocolate specialties. This edition features some old summer favorites while I take a bit of time for a special project.

Chocolate Recommendation of the Month: This one is something of a departure for me. I know that soy is much in the news these days for its multitude of health benefits, and it is equally true that there are any number of people who now turn to soy as an alternative to dairy products. I've tried soy milks in the past, but I was never able to find one I liked - until now. Zen Don (the name means "magic potion") is a family-run business that makes soy milk in 4 varieties: plain, vanilla, cappuccino, and chocolate. Theirs is the only chocolate soy milk I know that really tastes like chocolate, and I buy and drink it occasionally. They also make soy pudding in banana and chocolate flavors (I'm still a holdout for dairy in my puddings).

Zen Don's mascot is a panda named Su Lin, and the company is concerned with the preservation of these wonderful creatures. At present, distribution is nationwide but spotty; for the most part, the products are carried in natural foods stores (and in some Ralphís supermarkets on the West Coast). Check out the site at www.zendon.com for much more information, including frequently-asked questions about soy. The soy milk is certified organic and contains nothing artificial, as well. I know that a lot of my readers may be resistant to the idea of incorporating soy into their diets, but Zen Don just might make you change your mind!  

Do you have a comment, question, or suggestion? I'd like your input into this column. You can reach me at: sdziadwm@nac.net; please specify that you're writing regarding "For Chocolate Lovers Only". Thank you!