Savoring Chocolate: Uncovering the Art and History Behind Irresistible Recipes | Lifestyle News
At the heart of every exceptional chocolate recipe lies a story rich in indulgence and heritage. Originating from the ancient Mayans who cherished its bitter flavour, and refined by Swiss chocolatiers with meticulous care, chocolate has spanned centuries as a symbol of both pleasure and craftsmanship. Let’s delve into the journey of this beloved delicacy, exploring how it evolved from humble cocoa beans to the irresistible delight that delights palates across the world. Here are some chocolate recipes shared by Chef Akshraj Jodha of ITC Grand Bharat.
Chocolate Dipped Apricots with Pistachio Topping
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Pinch of salt
Method:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water.
2. Stir in honey and salt until well combined.
3. Dip each apricot into the chocolate mixture, coating about 3/4 of the apricot.
4. Roll the chocolate-dipped apricots in the chopped pistachios to coat.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Crunchy Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup natural peanut butter
– 1 ½ cups unsalted roasted peanuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey (optional for more sweetness)
Method:
1. Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Add the peanut butter: Stir the peanut butter into the melted chocolate until completely combined.
3. Stir in peanuts: Stir in the roasted peanuts, making sure they are evenly coated in the chocolate mixture.
4. Flavor with vanilla and sweetener: Add vanilla extract and maple syrup or honey if desired, and mix well.
5. Form clusters: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping them into small clusters.
6. Prepare the clusters: Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the clusters are firm.
7. Serve and store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh longer.
Dark Chocolate Hummus
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup natural peanut butter
– 1 ½ cups unsalted roasted peanuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey (optional for more sweetness)
Method:
1. Blend the chickpeas: Puree the chickpeas in a food processor until smooth.
2. Add ingredients: Mix together cocoa powder, maple syrup or honey, tahini, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until combined and smooth.
3. Adjust the texture: Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches the desired consistency.
4. Serve: Transfer the chocolate hummus to a bowl and enjoy with banana slices, apple slices, pretzels, strawberries or graham crackers.
