Belgian Chocolate the True Chocolate Lovers Dream Come True

By Thomas Crown

I love chocolate, there I said it I admit I am a chocoholic. However there is just one type of chocolate that is the true chocolate and that is Belgian Chocolate. This type is a dream come true for a true chocolate lover, in this article I will try to focus and tell you all about this treat from the chocolate gods. I know you are probably going to say that I am biased when it comes to talk about chocolates. This may be true but this is better than just chocolate, it is Belgian Chocolate.

We begin with properly defining Belgian Chocolate. This version of chocolate has been around since the'th Century and many people have become addicted to it since then. With a variety of candy processing companies producing some pretty good chocolate the desire for chocolate has increased significantly.

What is it that separate Belgian Chocolate from all the other chocolates of the world? Simply put, it's the craftsmanship that goes into manufacturing this treat. Unlike any other sort of chocolate that's sped through a machine and produced at an unimaginable amount of speed, Belgian Chocolate is more about quality not quantity.

The manufacturing companies of Belgian Chocolate to this very day still make their chocolate by hand with some of the same equipment which was used when the first piece of chocolate was made. The makers of Belgian Chocolate take pride in developing the best chocolate in the universe which is evident in every delicious bite.

What's even more intriguing about Belgian Chocolate is that it comes in a variety of flavors including but not limited to truffles that have mouth-watering fillings that are just incomparable. These truffles come in exotic flavors which cannot be duplicated anywhere else in the world.

If you are looking for a gift that will absolutely blow a person away then you will want to buy them an assortment of Belgian Chocolate truffles that will show a person how much you really care about them.

There are a number of people that are under the impression that Belgian Chocolate is no different than any other kind of chocolate being sold; however, this is so far from the truth. Contrary to popular opinion, criticism or debate, Belgian Chocolate is unlike any other chocolate on this earth.

Since this chocolate treat is not available at the local store level, you will have to make a special trip in order to purchase it. You might also be able to find an online store to make shopping easier.

In closing the important things to remember is that if you have a person in your family that loves chocolates then you will want to spend the extra money and buy them Belgian Chocolates. This will be like a dream come true for them and it will be a gift that they will remember for the rest of their lives.

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Explore new flavors in recipes this holiday

(ARA) - Holiday tunes on the radio, mistletoe hanging in strategic locations and the scent of pine lingering in the air - it's the perfect time to get into the kitchen and discover some new cooking flavors that will keep your taste buds happy and give your house a warm, yummy smell.

Not only does cooking in the kitchen gather everyone together during the holidays, but it provides the opportunity for some creative thinking about new recipes and ways to put a different twist on traditional favorites.

Experimenting with recipes allows you to explore new cooking flavors, either by using unique and new spices, or by combining different ingredients for a different taste.

One flavor many cooks often forget to try is vanilla, which has a heady, aromatic taste combined with sweet, fruity and floral scents. Vanilla beans are grown in primarily four locations around the world - Madagascar, Indonesia, Mexico and Tahiti - and each variety of bean can be used to enhance both sweet and savory flavors.

Nielsen-Massey's Pure Vanillas are cold extracted to slowly draw out the delicate flavors of the beans. Gourmet food shops, bakers, chefs of fine restaurants and manufacturers of premium ice creams use these vanillas because of their quality and varying flavors.

To experiment with the flavors of vanilla in your kitchen, try starting with this drink recipe:

Vanilla Peppermint Pattitini

Serves two



Ingredients:

2 ounces vodka

2 ounces half and half or cream

1 heaping tablespoon hot cocoa mix

1/4 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Peppermint Extract

1/2 teaspoon pure chocolate extract

1/2 teaspoon pure Tahitian vanilla extract (Madagascar or Mexican if preferred)

Ice

Chocolate syrup

Mini candy cane



Directions:

Add all ingredients except the syrup and candy cane in a shaker and shake vigorously. Pour into chilled martini glasses. Garnish with a swirl of chocolate syrup and candy cane.



For a great holiday dinner, consider cooking duck instead of chicken or turkey. "A Century of Flavor" cookbook offers the following recipe:



Duck Breast with Tahitian Pomegranate Chutney

Serves four



Ingredients:

For the Tahitian Pomegranate Chutney:

1 cup 100 percent pomegranate juice

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract

1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

1 tart apple, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)

1 Bosc pear, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)

1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

1/2 cup raisins



For the Duck Breast

4 duck breasts

salt and freshly ground pepper



Directions:

For the chutney, combine the juice, sugar, vanilla extract and vinegar in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, stirring frequently. Add the apple, pear, walnuts and raisins. Cook for five to eight minutes or until the fruit is tender, stirring frequently.

For the duck, preheat the oven to 400 F. Score the skin of each duck breast at a 45-degree angle approximately four times. Season with salt and pepper.

Preheat a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Coat with nonstick cooking spray. Place the duck breasts skin side down in the pan. Sear for four minutes. Turn and sear for an additional two minutes.

Place a wire rack in a 9 by 13-inch roasting pan and coat the rack with nonstick cooking spray. Place the duck on the rack. Roast for 10 to 15 minutes or to the desired degree of doneness. Plate with the Tahitian Pomegranate Chutney and wild rice.

And for dessert, try this cookie recipe:



Crisp Vanilla Butter Cookies

Makes two dozen cookies



Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar

1 tablespoon Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Powder

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chocolate pieces of choice



Directions:

Cream the butter, confectioners' sugar and vanilla powder in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the eggs and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt on low speed until just blended. Place the dough on parchment paper and shape into a 12-inch long log. Chill between 3 to 24 hours.



Preheat the oven to 350 F. Coat an insulated cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Cut the dough log into 1/4-inch-thick slices and place on the cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Place the cooled cookies on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.

Place the chocolate pieces in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on "high" for 15 seconds. Repeat at five-second intervals, stirring and checking the consistency. The chocolate is ready when it freely drips from the spoon in a fine line. Spoon the chocolate into a large plastic food storage bag. Twist the bag until the chocolate is in one corner and then trim the tip of the bag. Drizzle the chocolate over the cookies.

Variation: Add 1/2 teaspoon of any pure flavor extract, such as chocolate, almond, lemon, orange or coffee, to the cookie dough to create a signature cookie.

Courtesy of ARAcontent


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Wholesome Cooking at Home

(ARA) - We all want to eat a nutritious diet that helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases and manage cholesterol levels. The same holds true for diabetics; in fact, many of the guidelines for a balanced diabetic diet are useful for anyone who wants to stick to a healthful diet.

With all the refined sugars and processed carbohydrates found in today's grocery aisles and neighborhood markets, it's easy to see why anyone who is concerned about his or her health is intimidated by the idea of whipping up a healthy meal at home. Even though you have countless, long-forgotten cookbooks on your shelves and have visited various cooking Web sites, there aren't many recipes there that can offer you a healthful meal that won't send your blood sugar through the roof.

The American Diabetes Association recommends choosing whole grain, high-fiber foods and plenty of vegetables and fruits - the same foods that most people eat when they decide to follow a nutritious meal plan. Additionally, the ADA encourages diabetics to include "good" fats in appropriate portion sizes to reap the benefits of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. While many recipes might appear incompatible with nutritious diabetic eating, it's easier than you think to make them friendlier to a flavorful carbohydrate-controlled diet. Here are some tips:

Have a recipe that calls for a cup of sugar? Try cutting the amount in half and increasing the amount of spices in the recipe to amp up the natural sweetness.

Trying a recipe that asks for half a cup of butter or cream? Puree a medium-sized avocado in a blender or food processor and add more liquid to your mixture until you get the same creamy consistency.

The American Diabetes Association recommends avocados as a source of monounsaturated fat. Avocados have only 50 calories and less than 3 grams of carbohydrates per three-slice serving (or 1 ounce). The fat in avocados is two-thirds monounsaturated fat. According to the American Heart Association, mono- and polyunsaturated fats may actually help reduce cholesterol when consumed in moderation and substituted for saturated fat or trans fat in your diet.

Try incorporating avocados into your everyday meals to reap the benefits of nearly 20 vitamins and minerals and 1 gram of fiber per serving. By using appropriate amounts in pasta sauce, dips and garnishes for your favorite soups and salads, you can include avocados from Mexico year-round in your favorite dishes to add smooth texture and rich taste without putting your cholesterol levels at risk.

To get the best taste out of your avocado, buy avocados from Mexico ripe for immediate use, or firm for creating nutritious meals later in the week. Firm avocados will ripen to perfection when held at room temperature for one to three days. When they yield to gentle pressure, they're ready for the cooking to begin.

This holiday season, what better way to use your turkey leftovers than in a healthy, delicious sandwich? Try this recipe for a turkey sandwich with spicy avocado spread. For more recipes and ideas on how to incorporate avocados into your diet, visit www.theamazingavocado.com.

Turkey Sandwich with Spicy Avocado Spread

Makes: Four servings (1 cup of avocado spread)

Ingredients:

2 fully ripened avocados from Mexico, halved, pitted and peeled

1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle hot sauce

8 slices whole grain bread, toasted

8 ounces sliced cooked turkey

1 large ripe tomato, sliced

1 cup alfalfa sprouts


Directions:

In large bowl, mash together avocados, lime juice, salt and chipotle sauce. Spread on each bread slice. Top four of the bread slices with turkey, tomato and sprouts, dividing equally; cover with remaining bread slices. Garnish with sliced avocado, if desired.

Per serving: 355 calories, 22 grams protein, 16 grams fat, 36 grams carbohydrate


Courtesy of ARAcontent



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Pumpkin for Every Occasion

By Ken Kudra

Pumpkins are a specific type of squash in North America that is usually orange in color. In some places, however, any winter squash can be called a pumpkin. While this may be a bit confusing for those of us in North America, it is refreshing to know that there are more things to do with a pumpkin than carve it or make it into a pie.

Both the pumpkin seeds and the flesh are completely edible. The seeds are a great source for zinc in your diet. They can be roasted and enjoyed as a snack or as an addition to yogurt, breads, cereals and lots more. Anyone who has tasted butternut squash or pumpkin pie will have an idea of what pumpkin tastes like. It makes a great sweet or savory dish.

Pumpkin can be roasted whole to make a lovely vegetable dish. You can also make sweet breads using pumpkin. Add some cranberries for a holiday flair. Pumpkin butter makes a delicious change of pace on your morning toast. It is a smooth spread that can also be used on sandwiches, or add a large spoonful in your morning granola with a bit of yogurt for a new breakfast treat. Do not forget to add in some delicious toasted seeds as well.

Make pumpkin into cupcakes, muffins, and cakes. Pour the batter into a jellyroll pan to make a flat cake. Use cream cheese filling and roll it up for a yummy pumpkin roll. Pumpkin cheesecake is a common fall offering in many restaurants and grocery stores. Try making your own instead... it is not difficult. Use pumpkin in cookies and puddings to add more of this tasty vegetable to your diet.

Classic pumpkin soup is a delicious way to enjoy pumpkin. The creamy goodness is a great appetizer or you can make it a complete meal. Add some spices, or make it with roasted pumpkin to add even more flavor. Top it off with some chopped herbs or a swirl of sour cream to make it look as wonderful as it tastes.

Pumpkin is great to add to rice or pasta dishes. Try some delicious pumpkin risotto or make a filling for ravioli out of pumpkin. Mix chunks of pumpkin with other vegetables and make a roasted veggie dish. Mix pumpkin with cheese and polenta for something new. Pumpkin is full of vitamins like beta-carotene. Add more to your seasonal dishes and help boost your immune system for winter.

Have pumpkin for breakfast by making pumpkin pancakes, muffins, scones, or donuts. This versatile vegetable easily makes the transition from savory to sweet without a problem. Serve the pancakes with a whipped cream topping or maple syrup. You can even add cooked crumbled bacon to the batter before cooking the pancakes.

If you like dessert but you want something a little less sweet, try pumpkin ice cream or tarts. Adding pumpkin to your meal helps your family get the flavor of the season and get all their nutrition at the same time. Give the humble pumpkin a try.

About the Author:

There are many recipes pumpkin soup. Make it spicy or mild, savory or sweet. This soup is perfect for a fancy dinner or for everyday eating. Pumpkin brings in the flavors of the fall harvest. Blend it with other fall vegetables like onions and carrots.

Pumpkin Soup Varieties Keep This Recipe Fresh

By Ken Kudra

Pumpkin soup is one of those recipes that has many variations. While most people think of only classic pumpkin soup, there are many other ways to create a soup out of pumpkin. One of the easiest recipes is for a honey roasted pumpkin soup. The ingredients are drizzled with honey before roasting. Then it is made into soup.

Another easy pumpkin soup variation to try is pumpkin and cheese. This is a simple soup you can make using canned pumpkin puree. Simply add in your ingredients like spices, cream, broth, brown sugar and some grated cheddar cheese. Serve this soup with some fresh rolls or melt some grated cheese on top until it is bubbly and delicious.

Another twist on classic pumpkin soup adds real maple syrup to the soup as well as some Marsala wine. The rich flavors blend together, creating an incredible meal. Be sure and use real maple syrup... the imitation syrups just will not have the same effect on the soup.

You can also influence your pumpkin soup by changing cuisines. There are pumpkin soups in Thai, Haitian, Mexican and Jamaican cuisines. The common spices of each cuisine make the difference, creating new flavor variations with the pumpkin.

If you want something more exotic, try corn pumpkin crab soup. This soup is creamy, yet it contains crab, corn, cayenne pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. The creaminess comes from a good dose of heavy cream. If you do not want the cream, leave it out. A little dried dill adds a tang to the final result. Either way, the soup is delicious and a bit unusual. Your family will love it. If you want, serve it as an appetizer to an Asian meal.

You can also add specialty ingredients to vary your pumpkin soup. Bacon adds a lot of flavor for a savory soup, while chocolate makes a delightful dessert soup. If you like spice, add some peppers, curry or other hot spices to add some zest to your soup. Mix up sausage and peanut butter with your pumpkin soup for a very delicious, distinctive flavor you will not soon forget. This fast recipe can be put together quickly when you do not have much time.

Traditional fall ingredients like apple are also commonly combined with pumpkin in soup. Other winter squashes like butternut or even sweet potatoes can be combined to add different levels of flavor. Herbs can be used to add different flavors to the soup. In summer, you can even make a chilled pumpkin soup that will work wonders at cooling down your guests.

It really does not matter what variation of pumpkin soup you make. The results will be a rich, delicious soup that will fill you up and warm you to your core. The velvety texture of this creamy soup is satisfying on all levels. It may become a new favorite for your family or friends. If cooking time is at a premium, throw your ingredients in the crockpot and let them cook all day long. You can enjoy it in the evening at your leisure.

About the Author:

How do you make pumpkin soup? It really is very simple. Once you've given it a try you'll see how easy this fancy dish really is. Keeping it simple results in a delicious melding of the rich flavors of fall. Garnish it with something complementary, like sour cream or pumpkin seeds.