I have wanted to make these little chocolate treats for years and just have never gotten around to it. So, finally this year when I saw them in Bon Appetite Magazine I decided I was going to do it. They were so simple and fast I wondered why I'd never made them before. These little traditional French treats are simply melted chocolate shaped into a small circle and topped with fruit, nuts, candied citrus and pretty much anything you can think of. I think of them as your own individual chocolate bark, each bite can be tailored to have exactly what you like on top. I had to do some with peppermint on top because I love the festive look and peppermint bark is always a holiday staple. But, I have to say the traditional fruit and nut combination is pretty perfect. The salty and sweet with the rich chocolate, it's the perfect bite for after a large holiday dinner. I also felt like I had to make these, because what perfect neighbor gifts! They are beyond simple to make and look super pretty/ fancy in a little paper bag tied up with festive string. I think there is nothing better than a homemade treat. So if you're in a pinch this holiday or need something delicious in a hurry these little guys are just for you!
Chocolate Mendiants
-makes 30-35 candies-
8 oz. good chocolate (I use ghiridelli 60% or 70% baking bars)
chopped pistachios
pecan halfs
dried cranberries
sunflower seeds
cashews
rasins
crushed candy canes, dried fruit, nuts, candied ginger, sea salt, anything you want!
Melt your chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30 second increments till almost melted. Then stir chocolate till smooth and the heat of the melted chocolate has melted all remaining chocolate pieces. Lay a sheet of wax paper across a cookie sheet. Spoon dollops of chocolate onto the wax paper and spread into a circle just larger than a quarter. Continue till you've filled the sheet and then sprinkle each with toppings of your choice. I recommend leaving the peppermint alone, it's best by itself. Mixing the nuts and fruits is really delicious! After they all have their topping pop them in the fridge to harden for at least an hour, but they can be kept for 4 days in the fridge before serving. Peel off the wax paper and enjoy with a warm drink!
Happy Holidays!!
XOXO