A common gift as a tasty desert is the classic chocolate covered strawberries. Everyone who has had them no matter who you are or how old you are loves the taste of sweetness. There is a wide variety of chocolate used, anything from milk to dark and even white chocolate. No matter how you like it, nothing will replace the juicy flavor of a classic chocolate covered strawberry.
These sweet confections are especially popular around Valentine's Day. Slightly less run-of-the-mill than a regular box of chocolates this gift exhibits a certain degree of style and sophistication along with an appreciation for romanticism.
Chocolate covered strawberries are commonly used in gift baskets, some with wine, and other fine foods like cheese and crackers. These kinds of baskets are great for a nice picnic or long night of watching the stars. Many stadiums and outdoor venues will even allow you to bring a wine basket in with you.
Nothing is more important to the success of this dessert than the choice of the strawberry. Not only should the fruit be large, it must be garden-fresh, flavorful and ripe. If the strawberries do not possess these qualities, the dessert itself will cause disenchantment and regret. Undersized, bland berries are responsible for more distress than one may be aware of! When the strawberry possesses all the essential characteristics that together make up perfection, one berry is all that is needed for dessert.
The choice of chocolate to accompany the berry is also of major significance. The store brands found in most supermarkets are woefully inadequate and should be bypassed. Fondue chocolate, however, which is creamier and more intense, is oftentimes a good choice for dipping. Using dark chocolate imparts a somewhat refined taste that many find appealing while substituting white chocolate creates an entirely different taste sensation. In addition, recipes for making chocolate abound and can be used to great effect.
The preparation of the masterpiece will have a great affect on making it appealing to the eyes, for one must be visually stimulated by the appearance, before taking a chance at exciting the other senses. Using a long stemmed, perfectly-shaped strawberry that is dipped perfectly is of the utmost importance. The dip should only cover about 75% of the berry, leaving the top quarter and stem unblemished.
It should then be placed carefully on a sheet of waxed paper which will allow it to cool without sticking. Once the berry has cooled, an additional layer or two can be added. A drizzle of white chocolate perhaps. Even a design of some sort; for instance a tuxedo pattern is popular and charming. Ultimately, the taste of this confection cannot be separated from its initial impression. Without the considerable impact of a precise dip and a perfect shape, the unique and exceptional quality of the treat is compromised.
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Another great holiday to give chocolate strawberries as a gift is Mother's Day. After all, what mother wouldn't want something that says "I Love You"? Actually, you can surprise your wife or your mother with chocolate baskets or food gift baskets filled with impressionable delicacies.
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