My Chocolate Fantasy

Mabel van Niekerk asked:


The very word “chocolates” conjures up visions of delectable varieties of dark, milk and varieties of light candy.  Very few of us are not partial to chocolate.  There are so many varieties that there is one to suit every taste.

Maybe you prefer the less sweet chocolate then the one for you is the dark variety.  They are totally delicious and decadent.  Milk chocolates are sweet and contain milk powder.  White chocolate contains cocoa butter, sugar and milk but no cocoa solids so it is not considered to be true chocolate.  Never the less they are still delicious!

Because chocolate contains a variety of substances, including sugar and a small percentage of caffeine and among others, Theobromine, it is regarded as a mild stimulant.  On the other hand theobromine is considered toxic for animals such as dogs, cats, parrots and small rodents.  The reason is that they cannot metabolize the chemical effectively.  So remember that by giving your pets a piece of chocolate you are not doing them a favor.

There is most certainly not another treat that is as popular as chocolates.  At most celebrations chocolates will be evident.  Chocolates are given as gifts on most occasions.  Attractively packaged varieties of chocolates in their colorful wrappers make excellent gifts for birthdays, Christmas, mother and fathers day, graduations and that special gift for someone you love.

Most couples say “sorry” to each other with a gift of chocolates.  It is so much easier to forgive someone when they were thoughtful enough to bring along your favorite variety of chocolate!

http://www.perfectgifts4them.com

Jatin Chawla asked:


Chocolate gift basket is bound to work as everyone love chocolates. It has that soothing taste which is loved by people of all age groups. There are people who love a particular flavor of chocolate and there are other who just crave for chocolate be it any flavor, any brand. For example, some people like chocolates to be very sweet, some like the bitterness that comes with dark chocolate, some people just love white chocolate, some like chocolates filled with nuts and some like caramel filling in a chocolate. Various kinds of chocolates and chocolate lovers can have them all day.

Chocolate gift basket becomes the best and only option if the receiver is a chocolate lover. Also, chocolate gift baskets are a hit among kids. If it’s your girlfriend then you can always buy heart or rose shaped chocolates and let them know how special she is for you. If you are planning for a romantic evening with them on that special day then you can add up a nice wine bottle in your chocolate gift basket. Chocolate and wine are ideal combination specially when going on a long drive with your dearest one.

You can choose from variety of chocolates when packing a chocolate gift basket. It is a good idea to send a chocolate gift basket to someone who you don’t know that well. Here, you don’t have to worry about that person not liking your choice. You also get special low calorie chocolates, which you can send to a friend who is a health conscious. He is really going to relish this thought of having chocolates without affecting his health.

Today, some people even claim that chocolate have some medicinal benefits. Is it a fact or just a saying, it is debatable. But one thing is for sure whether chocolate has medicinal benefits or not, people who love chocolates will continue eating them.

deepika563 asked:


Did you find this article useful?  For more useful tips and   hints, points to ponder and keep in mind, techniques, and insights pertaining to credit card, do please browse for more information at our websites. http://www.yoursgoogleincome.com http://www.freeearningtip.com

Gourmet, from the word itself, stands in relation to food and means “of high-quality”. This is also known to be sophisticated, rare, meticulously prepared and sometimes expensive. With this definition, gourmet chocolates are regarded fine chocolate confectioneries.

Chocolate is made from both raw as well as processed foods from the cacao seeds. This seed is known to be cultivated in Central America almost 3,000 years ago. Cacao seeds are usually used in make chocolate beverages in those times.

To make chocolate, the cacao seeds must be fermented. After that, the seeds are dried and roasted. This is with the shell being taken out. This produces cacao nibs. These nibs are grounded until they turn into liquid, which subsequently becomes pure liquid chocolate. This is known as chocolate liquor. Thus, Cocoa solids and butter are created when this cocoa liquor is processed.

There are different kinds of chocolates. Unsweetened pure chocolates only have Cocoa solids and butter in it. Milk chocolates are the sweet type due to the fact that it contains condensed milk or milk powder. As for white chocolate, they do not have cocoa solids but they contain cocoa butter, milk and sugar.

Most people all over the world have become chocolate lovers whether it is in the form of food or beverage. With the advancement of technology, the production of mass chocolate candies is now made easier to make and sell. In addition, some chefs make use of chocolates as a part of their food delicacies, such as in specialty dishes, desserts as well as beverages.

At present, a popular type of chocolate has come out. This is known as gourmet chocolates. What does gourmet chocolate mean? Gourmet, from the word itself, stands in relation to food and means “of high-quality”. This is also known to be sophisticated, rare, meticulously prepared and sometimes expensive. With this definition, gourmet chocolates are regarded fine chocolate confectioneries. However, there are no regulations in terms of the standards of chocolate being classified as gourmet.

With this, how can one know if he or she is buying a gourmet kind of chocolate? From the definition in itself, you need to assess the total package of the chocolate being bought. To start with, the ingredients of the chocolate should be made from its purest form. The usage of pure cocoa butter as well as solids will make the gourmet chocolate delicately flavorful instead of having the usual vegetable fat flavouring. Moreover, these ingredients should be placed early on the list of other ingredients. In addition, if one is planning to buy truffle chocolates, one must look for unique as well as fresh ingredients. There must be no preservatives.

Furthermore, the presentation is also the key for making gourmet chocolates. Being an art in itself, the packaging and presentation would show how the maker carefully and intricately designed his craft. To serve at its best, gourmet chocolates should be made with a big heart and passion for chocolates. With taste and quality masterfully interwoven together, this makes gourmet chocolates the most expensive and delectable treat.

Listed below are the top five gourmet chocolate makers:

1. Christopher Norman Chocolates

Christopher Norman chocolates are beautifully crafted chocolates that were created with utmost perfection. Each piece has been hand made, thus creating a sensual luscious treat with extraordinary provoking taste. One of the finest in New York City!

2. MarieBelle New York

Created by Maribel Lieberman, her fine chocolates are a combination of art and electic ingredients. A taste would bring you poignant emotions of delight and contentment. Just like the beautiful gems delicately placed in their stylish Italian boxes, MarieBelle New York gourmet chocolate is sure worth the treasure hunt!

3. Lake Champlain Chocolate

Native delicacies such as these bring traditions to ultimate experience. Especially made from Vermont, this craftsmanship has been passed from generation to generation, bringing with them the classical flavours of the original Vermont pride. It sure makes you feel like home.

4. Romanicos Chocolates

Owned by Alejandra Bigai, her mastery would account to her presentation of the chocolate, according to its own nature: luxurious, sultry, and most of all mouth wateringly delicious. Hand rolled to its perfection, these gourmet chocolates exude delectable flavours such as passion caramel, and holy berry, heavenly vanilla, wild coconut, and a whole lot more! The Piccolo Art Collection also showcases chocolates that are hand painted wand are filled with nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, as well as pistachios. These are even beautifully and wonderfully packaged! You will never go wrong with Romanicos Chocolates.

5. L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates

This company makes gourmet chocolates at its most natural! This is aside from being fresh, delicious and original. This is due to the fact that each chocolate being made is uniquely designed. They are handmade can be ordered beforehand. This is what L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates are known for.

Aside from this, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, you will find the home of Hershey’s chocolate itself. It is also regarded as the sweetest place in the globe. Aside from the Hershey Park, it also has the Chocolate Spa and the Hershey’s Chocolate World. This area is definitely a chocolate lover’s paradise. Aside from experiencing their Chocolate Tour, they also have the Kitkat Cafe and the Hershey’s Factory Works among others. Not only will you be able to view the entire Hershey’s Chocolate Factory, you can also take part in an interactive chocolate making project. You will have the chance to design your own chocolate cupcake and chocolate flavoured ice cream. Thus, Every July is the anniversary of Hershey Kisses.

Linda Wilson asked:


Bring out this Red, White, and Blue Pie to celebrate patriotic holidays, to honor military service members, etc.  This pie is easy and decorative.  But best of all it is good.  Blueberries, strawberries, white chocolate pudding; you know it’s going to be delicious.  This recipe is diabetic and diet friendly.  If you want, you can make it regular by using regular products where sugar-free are called for.

RED, WHITE, BLUE PIE

1 baked, sugar-free pie shell

8 whole fresh strawberries, halved lengthwise

1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

8-oz reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed

3/4 cup powdered sugar*

3/4 cup cold low-fat milk

1 small box sugar-free instant white chocolate pudding mix

1 cup fresh blueberries

1 cup sugar-free whipped topping

Arrange sliced strawberries in the bottom of the pie shell.  In a medium or large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.  Gradually add milk; mix well.  Using low speed of electric mixer, mix in pudding mix for about 2 minutes or until thickened.  Spread pudding mixture over berries in pie shell.  Place the blueberries in the center of the pie.  Arrange the strawberry halves around the edge of pie, tips pointing to the edge.  Using a large star tip, pipe whipped topping between the blueberries and strawberries.

*How to make sugar-free powdered sugar:     Put 3/4 cup of Splenda Granular and 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a blender and blend until it is a very fine powder.  0 grams of sugar and only 4 carbs per tablespoon.

Now don’t tell.  Most people won’t know the difference and you’ll be so proud of your pretty pie, cake, etc.

Enjoy!

Chris Alleny asked:


In recent years, chocoholics and chocolate lovers have more reasons to celebrate and to eat more chocolates with less of the guilt. Recent studies show that cocoa actually contains a substantial amount of antioxidants that is even higher than black tea or red wine! That’s a lot of antioxidants to help fight free radicals that cause various ailments, from heart disease to cancer. Chocolate studies also show that cocoa lowers blood pressure and can offset chocolate’s high sugar level. Still, there are chocolates that are healthier than others. Dark chocolate, for instance is healthier than milk or white chocolate because of its higher cocoa concentration. There are also more alternative choices for healthier organic chocolates made from natural ingredients. Some, targeted for vegan chocolate lovers, contain soy instead of milk. Diabetic chocolate, targeted for those who have diabetes, are also available in the market. If you eat a lot of chocolate and are worried about how it will affect your health, organic sugar-free chocolates are a good alternative.

Organic chocolate

In today’s market, following the organic foods band-wagon, there are organic chocolate manufacturers that use high quality organic ingredients that meet or exceed organic standards for qualification. For a chocolate to be certified as organic, it should not contain any genetically modified ingredient. In producing milk chocolates, only milk that is free of recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH), an artificial hormone given to cows for increasing their milk production, can be used. Organic chocolates are made from organic cocoa, which are cultivated in small pots and are grown under a canopy shade to preserve the natural way it grows in its native tropical environment. Many of the cocoa that are grown in big plantations are sprayed with pesticides to prevent the development of diseases and to ensure its proliferation. According to the Pesticide Awareness Network (http://www.panna.org), cocoa plantations are second only to cotton plantations in the use of pesticides. Growing cocoa organically ensures that there are no pesticides involved. Biologists, in recent years, were able to determine and create environmentally sound farming methods that maintain biodiversity for cultivating cocoa organically, which at the same time, protects the winter habitat of migratory songbirds. Most organic cocoa manufacturers are also fair trade certified, which ensures that the labor that went into growing and cultivating the cocoa was fairly compensated. Under the fair trade agreement, sugar and cocoa farmers receive a fair share for their produce and thus helping to elevate their quality of life. Not only are organic chocolates politically correct and environmentally safe, they are also intriguingly delicious. Because organic chocolates are somewhat of a specialty, there are many varieties and flavors that are unique to organic chocolates and are worth the adventure for the true lovers of chocolate.

Soy chocolate

For those who are lactose-intolerant or are allergic to milk, or for those who are simply interested in Vegan products, soy-milk chocolate is a revelation. Some soy chocolate products claim that they have the “rich milk chocolate taste without the milk.” Most of these chocolates are GMO-free, non-dairy, lactose free, rich in soy isoflavones, and 100% vegan and healthy!

Adam Jaylin asked:


KG800 White, better known as the chocolate phone, is a bar-shaped handset by LG. The range of chocolate phones introduced by LG last year has taken the mobile market by storm throughout the world. This slide-open device is ultra stylish and is the choice of the celebrities who want to flaunt this candybar to the world. All this is not without a reason though and its aesthetic appeal and high-tech features give it all away.

Enhancing the visual appeal of the phone are its keys that glow red when in use and disappear as soon as you render it inactive. The touch-sensitive keys for easy navigation further adds to the attractiveness of this chocolate phone. Its two-inch (176×220 pixels) wide screen makes viewing of pictures, videos and wallpapers a pleasurable experience.

Coming to the features one need to mention the 1.3 megapixel camera with flash & 4X digital zoom, MP3 player and 128MB of memory. The camera clicks decent enough pictures and enables you to record and playback videos. Connectivity shouldn’t be a problem in the KG800 White with Bluetooth facilitating easy exchange of pictures and videos. Also, the integrated e-mail client lets you review attachments and e-mails.

The integrated Java (J2ME) support ensures that the users get the best of the gaming world on their palmtop. The LG KG800 White is a triband phone (GSM 900/1800/1900) that seeks to keep you in-touch always! The handset is a masterpiece by LG, their best selling product till date! Not only is it visually appealing but power-packed with high tech features as well.

Linda Wilson asked:


Bring out this Red, White, and Blue Pie to celebrate patriotic holidays, to honor military service members, etc.  This pie is easy and decorative.  But best of all it is good.  Blueberries, strawberries, white chocolate pudding; you know it’s going to be delicious.  This recipe is diabetic and diet friendly.  If you want, you can make it regular by using regular products where sugar-free are called for.

RED, WHITE, BLUE PIE

1 baked, sugar-free pie shell

8 whole fresh strawberries, halved lengthwise

1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

8-oz reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed

3/4 cup powdered sugar*

3/4 cup cold low-fat milk

1 small box sugar-free instant white chocolate pudding mix

1 cup fresh blueberries

1 cup sugar-free whipped topping

Arrange sliced strawberries in the bottom of the pie shell.  In a medium or large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.  Gradually add milk; mix well.  Using low speed of electric mixer, mix in pudding mix for about 2 minutes or until thickened.  Spread pudding mixture over berries in pie shell.  Place the blueberries in the center of the pie.  Arrange the strawberry halves around the edge of pie, tips pointing to the edge.  Using a large star tip, pipe whipped topping between the blueberries and strawberries.

*How to make sugar-free powdered sugar:     Put 3/4 cup of Splenda Granular and 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a blender and blend until it is a very fine powder.  0 grams of sugar and only 4 carbs per tablespoon.

Now don’t tell.  Most people won’t know the difference and you’ll be so proud of your pretty pie, cake, etc.

Enjoy!

Marci McFarland asked:


Chocolate is a wonderfully versatile theme that can transform your kitchen into a cozy nook reminiscent of the comfort of hot chocolate.

The milk and dark browns of true chocolate and the creamy white of white chocolate are great colors to decorate your kitchen in. Find color accents from the foods and spices that go with chocolate: vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, chilis. The original cocoa bean comes in colors that range from yellow to red. You’re trying to evoke the richness of hot chocolate with all the trimmings: whipped cream, sprinklings of cinnamon and nutmeg and even some hot chili accents.

The advantage of chocolate themes is that you can go dark or light. If your kitchen is smaller, you might want to try a creamy white like white chocolate, vanilla or whipped cream for the walls. You can even spritz some cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkles on the walls to give them that whipped-cream-on-hot-chocolate look. Patterned wallpaper that combines chocolate colors might also be a good option. A chocolate-brown-and-white stripe might work. If the kitchen is large and well-lighted, a chocolate brown color on the walls may not be too much. Use your knowledge of your space to make the right decision.

Once you’ve figured out the walls, consider the accents. Creamy white chocolate walls will get a boost from milk or dark chocolate browns on the door frames, doors, windowsills and floors. Chocolate browns also work well for your counters, dish towels, plates and kitchen tools. A chocolate brown tablecloth is attractive against white plateware and also hides many stains. If you want to ‘pep up’ your theme, consider chili red chairs or tablecloth or counters. Cinnamon and nutmeg browns do well to lighten up a rich, dark chocolatey main theme.

Collect old chocolate tins to keep kitchenware and frequently used baking supplies in. Hang some pictures featuring chocolate or put some vintage chocolate posters on your walls – turn-of-the-century Nouveau Art posters are exceptionally attractive. Try your hand at shadowbox frames (a shallow box with one glass side, meant to be hung on the wall) and fill them with cocoa beans. Hang mugs for hot chocolate on the walls and don’t forget to have your favorite chocolate mix situated prominently somewhere, along with the paraphernalia that go along with the perfect cup of chocolate.

Plants are an important part of decorating and a chocolate themed room is no exception. There are a number of plants that will either add to the smell or the appearance of your room. Chocolate flowers (berlandiera lyrata), chocolate cosmos (cosmos atrosanguineus) and chocolate vines (akebia quinata) actually smell like chocolate. The original chocolate plant, the cocoa tree (theobroma cacao), is notoriously difficult to grow in climates it is not suited for, but you can certainly give it a try. Check out chocolateflowerfarm.com for a wonderful selection of “chocolate” themed plants and seeds.

With a careful choice of wall colors and accents, you can recreate the look and feel of a decadent drink – calorie free.

Anna Sher asked:


There’s no better gift for the chocolate lover in your life than a chocolate candy gift basket. It makes a great present for just about any occasion … a birthday, Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, Easter, even Christmas.

So what do you look for in a chocolate candy gift basket?

If the gift is for a close friend or a spouse or a family member and you know the person’s tastes … go with what you know. Even chocolate lovers can have their own personal preferences. So if you know she enjoys a particular type or a particular brand, seek out a collection that you know will satisfy her.

If she enjoys variety, consider chocolate truffles, butter creams and soft centers, dipped fruits, caramels, and gourmet chocolates. These can all be prepared in milk, dark, or white chocolate combinations that are simply irresistible. And if she enjoys a variety of brands, these can include everything from Belcolade to Callebaut, from Ghiradelli to Lindt, from Rocky Mountain to Lake Champlain, from Romanicos to Recchiuti Confections.

You can even find gift baskets for the vegan. Or the sugar free variety for the diabetic.

For a more personal touch … make your own chocolate candy gift basket. You can pick up a beautiful basket at your local crafts shop for less than a few dollars. Line it with a colorful cloth napkin or two, fill it with a few gourmet chocolates (for instance. Godiva or Lindt or Ghiradelli are all popular brands), add some candy bars, perhaps some mint truffle hot cocoa, Hershey’s Kisses, and wrap it all up with a beautiful ribbon and bow. That’s all it takes. A few minutes of preparation and your thoughtfulness will be appreciated for a long time to come.

On the professional side, gift baskets are also great for business promotions or to express appreciation to company team members or even the whole office. While a wonderful selection of different chocolates that suit a variety of tastes should be your first and foremost concern, you can even do more. For example, why not take advantage of modern technology and customize some of the chocolates with your business emblem or name? What a powerful way to brand a business while expressing appreciation to those who help build and run the business!

Whether your budget is large or small, your choices are gourmet or everyday and available at your local grocery store, a chocolate candy gift basket is sure to bring a smile to your favorite chocolate lover. In fact, it’s hard to go wrong.

Danny Wright asked:


Not everyone has a love for chocolate, but for many of those who do it is virtually irresistible. Gourmet chocolates have a special texture that just melts in your mouth. Gourmet chocolate is full of richness that no other chocolate can give you. Most gourmet chocolate lovers are only interested in chocolate not a Reese bar with peanut butter and chocolate. There are gourmet chocolates to fulfill any chocolates lovers’ sweet tooth.

The main differences between different delectable chocolates are the different cocoa’s that the gourmet chocolate is made from. The addition of flavorings has made a big difference in the types of gourmet chocolates in the world today. Who would have thought that strawberries, raspberries and black berries would be some of the world famous flavors in chocolates?

Truffles of all flavors, shapes and sizes are also available for those who have that love for gourmet chocolate. Whether you have a love for dark, milk or white chocolate it is all available out there for you to devour. Boxes of gourmet chocolates are also available. Either plain chocolate or ones filled with your favorite filling. Once you start into a box it is hard to stop.

These small scrumptious treasures make a perfect gift for anyone especially for Valentine’s Day. If you know a chocolate lover, whether it be your significant other or your mom, they will greatly appreciate the delectable taste of these gourmet chocolates. Every person that you take the time to buy these for will know that you spent your hard earned money buying them the only gift they really need. Stores that sell these wonderful treats will also have gift certificates available. That way if you can’t pick out the perfect gourmet chocolates you can certainly let them do it with a gift certificate for gourmet chocolate.

As Valentine’s Day approaches use gourmet chocolates to finish a gift such as with flowers and a card or for the man in your life add a bottle of champagne. You can’t go wrong giving the gift of gourmet chocolate. Gourmet chocolates are great for every season and as a get well gift. For this type of gift you may want to add a fruit basket as well or again flowers. Either way you will make the person who you are giving to feel very special with the gift of gourmet chocolates. So what are you waiting for, head out and get that special someone a box of gourmet chocolates.