Friday, December 31, 2010

The Future Looks Bright

2010 was an excellent year. A transitional year. A happy year. Hope it was equally joyful for you.

The plan for 2011 -- growth! Personal growth. Professional growth (wherever Tapenades may take me). Whatever your plan is for the new year, I hope it's bright and full of great experiences.

Here's to a bright future!


In case you're looking for the perfect sweet bite to complement your bubbly, here's an easy recipe for decadent truffles.

Chocolate Truffles with Fleur de Sel
adapted from Epicurious

12 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips, finely chopped, divided
1/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons water
2/3 cup whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon fleur de sel
2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Place 8 ounces chocolate in metal bowl over saucepan of barely simmering water (do not allow bottom of bowl to touch water); stir until chocolate is smooth. Remove chocolate from over water.

Combine sugar and 2 tablespoons water in small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves, occasionally brushing sides of pan with wet pastry brush. Increase heat; boil until syrup is deep amber color, brushing down sides and swirling pan occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add cream (mixture will bubble). Stir over very low heat until caramel is smooth. Mix caramel and 1/4 teaspoon fleur de sel into melted chocolate. Chill until truffle filling is firm, at least 3 hours.

Coarsely grind the remaining 4 ounces in a food processor. Combine ground chocolate with cocoa powder. Using 1 tablespoon truffle filling for each truffle*, roll into balls, then roll in cocoa/chocolate chips. Arrange on baking sheet. Chill.

* Notes: If you are finding it difficult to make a ball, dip your tablespoon into a cup of water before you make each ball.

Happy New Year!





 

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