The appeal of chocolate covered strawberries appears to be universal. People of all ages, men and women, love this delicious, juicy treat. Whether enveloped in white, dark or milk chocolate, covered strawberries make an indulgent, special gift or dessert.
Strawberries are most popular during Valentine's Day and other romantic occasions such as anniversaries and weddings. It has become common for people to give these instead of a simple box of chocolates. Love and respect are shown to the recipient when they are given as gifts.
Chocolate covered strawberries are also the perfect accompaniment for Use in gift baskets of all sorts. Included with cheese, crackers and a lovely bottle of wine this type of basket is an ideal companion for a picnic, a special date, or an evening performance at an outdoor venue. Many event sites encourage guests to bring their own food, creating an upscale 'tail gating' atmosphere.
There are many things that come into play when creating this confection. First, the strawberries must be large, ripe, and fresh. They should be bursting with flavor and juice. If the main ingredient is not perfect, the end result will not be nearly as enjoyable. There is nothing worse than purchasing a strawberry that is small and flavorless. The juice should be substantial enough to drip down one's chin slightly, but not enough to make a mess of a shirt. One strawberry is all that should be needed to satisfy. The size and quality of the strawberry also lends to the sensuality of the dessert.
The choice of chocolate to accompany the berry is also of major significance. The store brands found in most supermarkets are woefully inadequate and should be bypassed. Fondue chocolate, however, which is creamier and more intense, is oftentimes a good choice for dipping. Using dark chocolate imparts a somewhat refined taste that many find appealing while substituting white chocolate creates an entirely different taste sensation. In addition, recipes for making chocolate abound and can be used to great effect.
The eye appeal is another thing you have to worry about when making your chocolate covered strawberries. Take your time to ensure you've picked the perfect strawberry and dipped it in the chocolate to make it visually appealing. A common rule of thumb is that the chocolate should not cover more than 75% of the strawberry.
It should then be placed carefully on a sheet of waxed paper which will allow it to cool without sticking. Once the berry has cooled, an additional layer or two can be added. A drizzle of white chocolate perhaps. Even a design of some sort; for instance a tuxedo pattern is popular and charming. Ultimately, the taste of this confection cannot be separated from its initial impression. Without the considerable impact of a precise dip and a perfect shape, the unique and exceptional quality of the treat is compromised.
Strawberries are most popular during Valentine's Day and other romantic occasions such as anniversaries and weddings. It has become common for people to give these instead of a simple box of chocolates. Love and respect are shown to the recipient when they are given as gifts.
Chocolate covered strawberries are also the perfect accompaniment for Use in gift baskets of all sorts. Included with cheese, crackers and a lovely bottle of wine this type of basket is an ideal companion for a picnic, a special date, or an evening performance at an outdoor venue. Many event sites encourage guests to bring their own food, creating an upscale 'tail gating' atmosphere.
There are many things that come into play when creating this confection. First, the strawberries must be large, ripe, and fresh. They should be bursting with flavor and juice. If the main ingredient is not perfect, the end result will not be nearly as enjoyable. There is nothing worse than purchasing a strawberry that is small and flavorless. The juice should be substantial enough to drip down one's chin slightly, but not enough to make a mess of a shirt. One strawberry is all that should be needed to satisfy. The size and quality of the strawberry also lends to the sensuality of the dessert.
The choice of chocolate to accompany the berry is also of major significance. The store brands found in most supermarkets are woefully inadequate and should be bypassed. Fondue chocolate, however, which is creamier and more intense, is oftentimes a good choice for dipping. Using dark chocolate imparts a somewhat refined taste that many find appealing while substituting white chocolate creates an entirely different taste sensation. In addition, recipes for making chocolate abound and can be used to great effect.
The eye appeal is another thing you have to worry about when making your chocolate covered strawberries. Take your time to ensure you've picked the perfect strawberry and dipped it in the chocolate to make it visually appealing. A common rule of thumb is that the chocolate should not cover more than 75% of the strawberry.
It should then be placed carefully on a sheet of waxed paper which will allow it to cool without sticking. Once the berry has cooled, an additional layer or two can be added. A drizzle of white chocolate perhaps. Even a design of some sort; for instance a tuxedo pattern is popular and charming. Ultimately, the taste of this confection cannot be separated from its initial impression. Without the considerable impact of a precise dip and a perfect shape, the unique and exceptional quality of the treat is compromised.
About the Author:
And just in case you decide that Valentine's Day is nowhere near adequate enough to fulfill your gift-giving - or receiving! - of chocolate covered strawberries, consider Mother's Day as another ideal opportunity. Who wouldn't adore chocolate gift baskets or fruit baskets of this luscious, indulgent delicacy?
No comments:
Post a Comment