To the untrained tongue, all chocolate may seem the same. In reality, there are some significant differences in how chocolate is made. When it comes to quality, gourmet chocolate in Chicago is at the top of the list. It’s the best of the best and something that every chocolate connoisseur aspires to enjoy.
Once you’ve tried gourmet chocolate in Chicago, you’ll never want to go back to those average chocolate bars they sell at the gas station. But what is it that makes this chocolate any better than the rest?
What Makes It Gourmet?
There are three qualities that separate your average chocolate from that of the gourmet variety. These qualities are the ingredients, the artistry, and the preparation. The most important of these is the quality of the ingredients and the method of preparation. The quality of the cocoa beans is extremely important. Likewise, gourmet chocolate does not substitute vegetable oil for cocoa butter, while normal chocolate will.
The Preparation and the Artistry
Preparation plays a big role in setting Chicago gourmet chocolate apart from the rest. This will include steps like fermenting and roasting of the cocoa. Preparation varies according to the type of chocolate being produced as well. It is extremely important with certain types, such as truffles.
The artistry is purely aesthetic but plays its part in setting the chocolate apart from the competition. Think of the shape and design of the chocolate as well as how nice it is to receive chocolate in a fancy packaging.
Always Delicious and Beautiful
If it’s gourmet, then it should always look and taste amazing. There’s a fine line between gourmet style chocolate made by a professional and mass produced chocolates that are designed to look gourmet. It may take some time to refine your tastes, but once you notice the difference, you’ll never want to go back.