Tuesday, November 23, 2010

How To Choose The Best Luxury Chocolates

By Katie Clayton


Gourmet chocolate is a luxury which many people reserve for Christmas. So if you're searching for the perfect box of chocolates for a loved one it's important to make it extra special. You may have to try a few different types before you make the right decision, making it just as much a treat for you as it is for them!

There are so many different varieties - milk, dark, white, nut centres, fruit centres and spice infused - so there's something out there for everyone. First, you need to look at the ingredients. The higher the chocolate content, the better the chocolate, so you should be looking for 70-85% cocoa solids in the ingredients list. A high percentage of sugar is an indicator of lower quality. Preferred sugars to look for on the list are unprocessed crystallised cane sugar, fructose and agave syrup.

The appearance of your chocolates is particularly important if you are giving them as a gift. They should be dark and even in colour with no blemishes, streaks, cracks or air bubbles. These are all an indicator of lower quality chocolate that is not worth paying a premium for. Chocolates with a high ratio of fats will crumble rather than make a sharp snap when you break off a piece.

Now for the best bit - the tasting. Luxury chocolate should have a smooth and fine texture with no grains or waxy tastes. Chocolate is designed to melt at body temperature so it should instantly melt in your mouth and release a flavour explosion. An overly sweet chocolate will restrict the variety of other flavours that are found in luxury chocolate.

So ignite your taste buds this Christmas by trialling some of the best luxury chocolates. It's a great way to not only find the perfect gift for a loved one and treat all your hard work too!




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