Hi. We’re Felix Magazine and we’re chocoholics.
Luckily for us (and for you) our addiction is one we actually have no intention of quitting. What with its propensity to release serotonin (the happy chemical, to you and me) in the brain and its multiple health benefits when eaten in moderation (yes, really!), it’s no wonder that it makes us so much more optimistic about life.
And in today’s day and age, that is really something we can never get too much of.
Arguably the best type of chocolate – what with its rich ganache centred, chocolate coated sphere of goodness – is the luxurious Truffle.
As French novelist, Sidonie Gabrielle Colette, once said, “If I can’t have too many truffles, I’ll do without truffles.” And if there’s one thing the French really know, it’s their chocolates.
One of London’s most prestigious Truffle Artist, Les Artisans Chocolatiers, is another fount of wisdom on the subject, and we spoke to Meetal Shah from the gourmet brand on the secrets behind making the best of the best.
What is the feeling you are trying to create?
That’s the easy part! The first bite of your creation should result in a dreamy, out of body experience and some dangerous drooling – all whilst your eyes are softly closed and your mind lulled into an alternate reality.
It is a long-lasting, adrenaline-filled, caffeine-beating, exhilarating feeling – and one which is totally addictive!
Can anyone make a truffle?
Of course – in the same way that anyone can paint a picture or even design a car. It does, however, take a lifetime and passion to become a chocolatier and create tiny forms of individual art which impacts people both physically and emotionally. Welcome to the world of chocolate!
How do you get that ‘melt in your mouth’ feeling?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it’s all about the Cs – Contrast, Care, Craftmanship and – of course – Chocolate. We love the contrast of the crispy shell crafted from pure chocolate with the soft, smooth and creamy truffle filling; the perfect balance of bitter with sweet. It’s a winning blend that your palate will thank us for time and time again.
Where do you source your products?
We are proud to use chocolate beans sourced in Ghana, plump vanilla from Uganda, aromatic yuzu from Japan and a dusting of basil salt from the plains of Peru. In fact, to-date we’ve used 23,017 different ingredients from over 29 countries – a figure which is increasing every day.
With no added essences, artificial additives or preservatives, you can rest assured that our little balls of happiness are full of goodness – in every sense of the word.
The amazing thing about chocolate is that it is so versatile, and here at Les Artisans Chocolatiers we strive to put our own stamp on it through embracing and enhancing the notes in the natural cacao to let it really sing!
Like all the best luxuries in life, such as wine and tea, you have to really understand the undertones of the raw material to allow it to reach its full potential.
As a result, we pair floral tones with mellow cacaos and use strong and smoky cacaos to carry our roasted nuts and dark fruits.
How many of your chocolates are hand made?
Every single one, and at every single stage. From the cutting, melting and tempering to the final dip and decoration, each chocolate is meticulously crafted by hand – in small batches and with the utmost quality control. It’s fair to say that we believe in the human touch!
How Green is your chocolate?
Ingredients are so important to us – we have seen the difference the taste and texture makes when incorporating organic and ethically sourced fruit, spices and nuts – and, as a result, use organic produce wherever possible.
We also champion a strict recycle policy and have employed a “give back” program in Africa, hoping to encourage ethical and organic cacao farming whilst preserving their indigenous flora and fauna.
Green is definitely the backdrop to our brown (and not just in its tendency to make those around you envious!).
“A balanced diet is chocolate in both hands”. So, what are you waiting for? Come see what all the fuss is about and leave with a chocolate in both hands. And in your pockets. And bag. (We won’t tell. Promise).
They have launched a pop up and you can find them here.
The post OMG: Discover The Secrets of Chocolate Truffles appeared first on Felix Magazine.
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