Aromatic Chocolate Ganache

 Photo by: Slobblogs

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and we know what is on everyone’s mind… CHOCOLATE! What better way is there to celebrate the romantic holiday than with some Aromatic Chocolate Ganache.

Aromatic Chocolate Ganache

12 oz bittersweet chocolate chips

10 oz heavy cream*

Essential oil (3-5 drops)**

*For a dairy-free version, substitute 10 oz coconut milk (not lite)

1. Place the chocolate chips in a large bowl, set aside.
2. Warm the cream or coconut milk in a pan until just before boiling.
3. Add 3-5 drops of essential oil to the cream. Stir well to incorporate it. Pour the cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes to melt the chips.
4. With a small whisk, whisk the chocolate and coconut milk into a smooth ganache. Work quickly and move the bowl around to get the chocolate that sticks to the side. The more you whisk it, the darker the color and it becomes shiny. (Tip: add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavor.)

 Photo: Chefeddy

Pour the ganache over cake or ice cream.

To make chocolates for your sweetie, fill chocolate liquor toasting cups (available at most liquor stores) with the flavored ganache. Keep refrigerated.

**Experiment with flavors. Try 4 drops orange with 1 drop geranium, or 3 drops lemon with 2 drops lavender, 4 drops lime with 1 drop basil, 3-4 drops of peppermint, or 2 drops rose. Top with candied fruit peel, organic lavender buds or rose petals.

By Lora Cantele