Chinese New Year (CNY) is approaching with an air of excitement and anticipation. It's a time for family gatherings, heartfelt traditions, and of course, indulging in delectable treats that symbolize prosperity and sweetness. This CNY, we invite you to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your celebrations by exploring the world of gourmet chocolate.
Here are some simple recipes for you to elevate your Chocolate Feast this CNY!
1. Chocolate Fondue Party
Ingredients:
- Your pick of Love18chocolate (dark, milk, or white, depending on your preference)
- A delightful assortment of dippable treats (e.g., fluffy marshmallows, crispy pretzels, succulent strawberries, apple slices, and tantalizing pound cake cubes)
Instructions:
- Chop & Prepare: Begin by chopping the chocolate into small pieces for effortless melting.
- Melt Your Chocolate: Using your fondue pot, melt the chocolate within, employing 30-second intervals and stirring carefully until it becomes velvety-smooth.
**No fondue pot? No problem! Alternatively, you can use a microwave or the "Double-Boiler Method." In a pot, add a bit of hot water and set the heat to low. Place a heatproof bowl on top, nestling your chopped chocolate inside. Gently stir until it melts to perfection.
- Keep the Elegance Warm: To maintain the enchantment, position your fondue pot or heatproof bowl over a radiant tea light candle or petite burner.
- Display the Array: Artfully arrange the dippable items on a platter.
- Dip and Share Happiness: With fork or bamboo stick in hand, let your guests select their preferred treats and immerse them into the melted chocolate, unlocking a world of flavors and sharing moments of sweetness and togetherness!
Image Source: Hungry Fan2. Chocolate Bark
Ingredients:
- Your pick of Love18chocolate (dark, milk, or white, depending on your preference)
- An array of delightful toppings (e.g., crushed nuts, dried fruits, edible flowers, or a pinch of sea salt)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chocolate: Begin by chopping the chocolate into small, easily melt-able pieces.
- Melt Your Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, place the chocolate and microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until it transforms into a luxuriously smooth liquid.
**Alternatively, you can use the "Double-Boiler Method" as well! Refer to Steps 2 in Recipe 1!
- Top with Temptation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the melted chocolate onto it, spreading it into a thin, even layer. Sprinkle your chosen toppings gracefully while the chocolate remains warm and inviting
- Cool Down Your Chocolate: Allow the chocolate bark to cool at room temperature or place it in your refrigerator for approximately an hour.
- Break into Bliss: Once set, break the chocolate bark into delectable pieces, and you’re all set to share the happiness with your lovely guests!
Image Source: BBC Good Food
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Ingredients:
- Your pick of Love18chocolate (dark, milk, or white, depending on your preference)
- Fresh strawberries with stems intact
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries, leaving the stems intact.
- Melt Your Chocolate: Chop the chocolate into small, manageable pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until it becomes irresistibly smooth. (Or, use the “Double-Boiler Method” as an alternative!)
- Dip with Happiness: Hold a strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, coating it about halfway.
**You can enjoy your strawberry up to this step! Alternatively, enhance your temptation by cooling them down at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and enjoy them as they harden!
Image Source: Delish
Love18's Editor's Chocolate Recommendations:
Chocolate, with its rich and velvety allure, is the perfect embodiment of luxury and joy. Whether it's dark, milk, or white, the versatility of chocolate knows no bounds. At Love18, we believe in #RealGoodChocolate! So, simply choose your favorite. But what we can suggest is:
- Dark Chocolate: For the Classics
The choice for those seeking a bold and complex chocolate experience. - Milk Chocolate: Creamy Delight
With its creamy texture and sweet, milky flavor, is a crowd-pleaser loved by many. Hence, It's the perfect choice for gatherings and celebrations, as it appeals to a wide range of tastes - White Chocolate: For the Sweet Tooth
The sweetest among all, making it a favorite among those who crave sugary delights.
Elevating your chocolate experience this CNY is more than just crafting delicious treats; it's about crafting memories, sharing joy, and embracing the traditions that unite us. Whether you opt for a Chocolate Fondue Party, relish the artisanal beauty of Chocolate Bark, or revel in the elegance of Chocolate-Covered Strawberries, remember that it's the simple gestures and shared moments that make this season truly extraordinary.
As we say #GoodBye to the old year and welcome the new, may your CNY overflow with sweetness, prosperity, and the sheer delight of serving chocolate in its most enchanting forms. Gong Xi Fa Cai, and may the Year of the Dragon usher in boundless happiness and good fortune for you and your loved ones.