Chocolate, roses, and broken hearts...
|
The Valentine's Day Debate
Valentine's Day: Like Woody Allen movies, you're either a fan or you're not. There is no middle ground on cupids, chocolates and hearts.  At the tender age of 15, my best friend in high school concluded that love was tragic, and celebrated every Valentine's Day by dressing entirely in black. Eric Leisgang had broken her heart and she was determined that everyone in school--and the entire world--would sympathize. Needless to say, this put a damper on the day for her friends. We hid the flower bouquets and presents admirers gave to us and kept stoic faces throughout the school day, knowing that if one of us so much as blew a kiss, she would brand us all traitors. She is now happily married with two kids and adores Valentine's Day, of course, but every Feb. 14 I'm reminded of her poor teenage broken heart. I have to stop myself from running to the store to get black nail polish. On the other hand, there are those people who, all year round, buy anything with a heart on it, saving their treasures for that one day, the big day, when they can show their support for the emotion that makes the world go round. I own heart-dotted socks and have a huge heart wreath on my door, so some might say I fall into this category. And, of course, let's not forget chocolate. Could there be any better reason to love Valentine's Day? A holiday based on love and chocolate and, well, loving chocolate. That's not to say that I always had a boyfriend who showered me with gifts on Feb. 14. Oh, no. I've had plenty of "romantic" Valentine's dinners with my single girlfriends and even by my lonesome. That special someone you celebrate on Valentine's Day doesn't have to be a boyfriend, girlfriend or significant other--it could be your best friend, sister, or even yourself. So mix up a batch of this Rosy Fudge and show that special someone that you care. It's the perfect Valentine's Day treat, combining flowers with chocolate--and you can eat it whether you're wearing heart socks or solid black ones.  Rosy Fudge Recipe What you'll need... Makes 8 to 10 servings 3 cups sugar 3/4 cup butter 2/3 cup evaporated milk 1 12-ounce package semi-sweet chocolate pieces 1 7-ounce jar marshmallow creme 1 cup chopped nuts 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 Tablespoons rose (or other edible flower) petals, torn into small pieces Get started... 1. Combine sugar, butter and milk in heavy 2-1/2 quart saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Continue boiling for 8 minutes to 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching (sugar should reach softball stage). 3. Add marshmallow creme, nuts and vanilla. Whisk until well blended. 4. Pour fudge into a greased 13-by-9-inch pan. Sprinkle rose petals overtop and gently press into fudge. Cool at room temperature.
Light up a row of votives in this Red 7-Cup Wooden Candle Holder from Katie Brown Simply at Meijer.
|
Design your dream kitchen for less with advice and support from Sub Zero Wolf!
|
Connect with us: