The Washington Post, February 6, 2008
These luscious, silky treats are infused with tea and various spices reminiscent of masala chai, the Southeast Asian tea delicacy. Remember to use fresh spices for best flavor.
Store the truffles in resealable plastic food storage bags at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Makes 32 to 42 truffles
Ingredients:
Directions:
Combine the cream, tea, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, fennel seeds and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat; cook just until bubbles form around the edge. Cover, remove from the heat and let sit for 30 minutes.
Add the butter and return the saucepan to medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted, the mixture is heated through and small bubbles have formed around the edge of the saucepan.
Place the chopped chocolate in a large mixing bowl. Strain the hot cream mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the bowl with the chocolate. Discard the solids in the strainer; stir the chocolate until it is thoroughly melted and smooth. Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator; stir every 20 minutes until the mixture thickens (this should take about 1 hour) and can be rolled into small balls.
When ready to form the truffles, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the cocoa powder in a small bowl.
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the chilled chocolate mixture; use your hands to roll it into a ball that is not smooth, then roll the ball in the cocoa powder. Roll again to make the exterior smooth and place on the lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chocolate mixture.
From Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough.
95 calories, 7g fat, 4g saturated fat, 15mg cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 7g carbohydrates, 1g dietary fiber, n/a sugar, 1g protein.
