| For the Love of Chocolate |
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Have you ever wondered why lovers give each other chocolate for Valentine’s Day? Where did this connection between chocolate and love begin? The “magic” cocoa bean was discovered thousands of years ago by the ancient Mayan and Aztec people. They combined the beans with spices and hot water to create a brew known as “xocolatl”, later called chocolate. They believed the brew brought wisdom and knowledge to all who consumed it. Around 1519, on a visit to the Aztec King Montezuma, Spanish explorer Hernando Cortez was served the chocolaty beverage. Cortez believed the drink had a powerful effect on his libido…the rest, as they say, is history. In modern times, the affects of chocolate on humans remains a topic of interest. Many believe chocolate to be an aphrodisiac. There is little direct scientific evidence to support this theory, however, we do know that chocolate is made up of more than 300 chemicals, many of which are known to alter mood. Chemicals such as caffeine, phenylethylamin and serotonin, boost energy, improve mood, stimulate the heart and nervous system and most importantly, mimic the same body reaction as the feelings of falling in love. These same chemicals occur naturally in the human brain when we are happy and in love. Conversely, many scientist’s say the effects of chocolate on mood are most likely, psychological. Well, that’s good enough for me; after all, happiness is a state of mind, right? The reality is that chocolate makes you feel good and induces feelings of being in love. Everyone enjoys receiving the gift of chocolate on Valentine’s Day or any other day because it makes you feel good! I guess that’s why Valentine’s Day just wouldn’t be the same without chocolate. Easy Valentine’s Truffle Recipe 1 lb. semi sweet chocolate chips 1 C. whipping cream 1 ½ lbs. Merkens* dark chocolate melting wafers Heat whipping cream, until it just begins to steam, do not boil. Add chocolate and remove from heat. Stir until the chocolate is melted. Allow to cool. When cool, whip it with the mixer for 1-2 minutes and let it rest on the counter at room temperature overnight. In the morning scoop out round tablespoons of mixture and refrigerate them on a baking tray until chilled. Once chilled roll into 1 inch balls. Dip balls into melted Merkens* dark chocolate and allow to harden in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container in a cool place. Never store chocolate in the refrigerator. Makes 40 - 50 truffles. *Merkens chocolate is a premium melting chocolate sold at specialty chocolate shops. For more information or to sample this recipe, please contact Lisa Porada at 732-280-0606. Lisa Porada is the owner of Chocolate Carousel, an old-fashioned sweet shop featuring homemade chocolates, cakes and ice cream in Wall, NJ. |
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