Chocolate

Chocolate and strawberries are a classic romantic pairing, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.

However, purchasing them can be quite pricey.

I’ve discovered a simple (and tasty) way to make this treat without overspending.

Instructions for Chocolate Covered Strawberries for Valentine’s Day

You’ll need:

• Fresh Strawberries
• Chocolate Chips (choose semisweet or dark)
• Cupcake Liners
• Optional: Cooking oil (peanut, canola, vegetable, etc.)

TIP: If strawberries are out of season, finding flavorful ones can be challenging. I suggest picking up the container and sniffing around the holes at the bottom. If you can smell strawberries, they are likely to be tasty. No scent usually indicates bland berries.

Melting the chocolate: Pour a generous amount of chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl, preferably glass for even heating. Microwave for 2 minutes at 50% power. Remove, stir, and return to the microwave in 30-second intervals at 50% power until completely melted. If the chocolate is too thick, add 1/4 teaspoon of oil and mix to create a smoother consistency without it becoming too runny.

Coating the strawberries: Hold a strawberry by the leaves. Use a spoon (a soup-sized one works well) to scoop a generous amount of chocolate. Pour the chocolate over the front of the strawberry from left to right. Use the remaining chocolate in the spoon to roll the back of the strawberry to cover it. This method might take a little practice, but it coats the berries more thoroughly than just dipping and creates a lovely swirl of chocolate on the front. If using a deeper bowl, dipping should also be effective.

Cooling: Place the coated strawberries on wax paper and sprinkle with toppings if desired. For a fancier touch, melt some white or dark chocolate for drizzling over the top.

Presentation: After the chocolate has set, arrange the strawberries in cupcake liners and refrigerate.

Enjoy!