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The Mysterious Truffle
By Jane S. Roseen
Truffles are well-known as some of the most delectable
chocolate treats available. But they are such a delicacy
that they were shrouded in mystery for many years.
These tempting treats are exquisite in variety of
both taste and settings in which to enjoy them.
Truffles are well-known as some of the most delectable
chocolate treats available. But they are such a delicacy
that they were shrouded in mystery for many years.
These tempting treats are exquisite in variety of
both taste and settings in which to enjoy them. For
the most basic of explanations, chocolate truffles
typically are a thin shell of powdered chocolate with
a soft center. They can vary widely from there, but
that is a basic truffle.
The outer layer is most often couverture chocolate,
which contains at least 32 percent cocoa butter. This
is much higher than most eating and baking chocolate,
and allows for a wonderfully smooth, shiny, even surface.
This couverture chocolate is available in all varieties,
including white, milk, and dark, allowing for variety
in truffle coatings.
The center is called ganache, which is a mixture
of chocolate and cream. The exact balance between
the two determines the creaminess and texture of the
center. More cream, and it’s a smoother, softer
truffle center. Less cream, more chocolate, and it’s
a firmer, coarser truffle. In addition, the ganache
can be flavored with a variety of items to create
a new taste altogether. Some of the perennial favorites
include nuts, essential extracts, and liqueurs. These
add an entirely new dimension to the truffle, and
allow for even more discussion as to what makes the
perfect truffle.
The question that always pops up when viewing a truffle
– what kind is it? Without being so gauche as
to stick one’s finger in the center like a child,
you can usually tell what kind of truffle is in front
of you from the outer coating. The predominant flavor
of the truffle usually decorates the top of the outer
coating. For example, apricot truffles have a small
sliver of apricot on the top. Or praline truffles
have a small praline or bits of praline on the outer
layer. So never again wonder what you might get when
you bite in!
Historically, truffles were solely for the rich.
The time and effort that goes into the making of a
truffle by hand just priced them beyond the reach
of many common people. Truffles therefore became known
as a very special treat with dessert. However, with
the advent of many automated manufacturing processes,
almost anyone can enjoy the exquisite pleasure of
chocolate truffles. They serve as a wonderful centerpiece
to a collection of candies on a buffet, pair delightfully
with after-dinner coffee, and even freeze beautifully
to take along on a picnic and thaw as the day progresses.
So next time you have a craving for chocolate, consider
trying truffles. You won’t be disappointed in
these delicate morsels, and will likely wonder why
you didn’t have some on hand before this!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jane S. Roseen is the Owner and President of Harmony
Sweets, an international gourmet chocolate shop. Harmony
Sweets' mission focuses on individual consumers purchasing
gourmet chocolates from around the world for their
friends and relatives, as well as corporate gift giving.
Gourmet chocolate gift baskets and personalized chocolates
are also available. Website: http://www.harmonysweets.com
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