Black-Truffles

Mongolian Black-Truffles Recipe with Bittersweet Chocolate and Walnuts

Region / culture: Mongolia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Indulge in the luxurious world of homemade Black-Truffles, a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of bittersweet chocolate, coffee liqueur, and vodka with the crunch of toasted walnuts. This recipe is perfect for those special occasions when you want to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary. Follow along as we explore the history, cooking tips, and nutritional information of this exquisite dessert.

History

The concept of truffles, named after the precious fungi due to their similar appearance, has its roots in France during the 19th century. Originally made with ganache and coated in cocoa powder, the recipe has evolved over time, incorporating various flavors and ingredients. Our version with coffee liqueur and vodka is a modern twist on the classic, offering a complex flavor profile that is sure to delight any palate.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of premium bittersweet chocolate, broken into 2-inch pieces
0.25 cup of whipping cream
2 tbsp of butter
3.5 tbsp of coffee-flavored liqueur
1.5 tbsp of vodka
1 cup of chopped toasted walnuts

How to prepare

Place the chocolate in a food processor and process until the chocolate is chopped.
Combine the cream and butter in a 1 cup glass measuring cup. Microwave on high for 1.5 minutes or until the butter is melted and the cream begins to boil.
With the food processor running, pour the hot cream mixture through the food tube and process until the chocolate melts.
Add the liqueur and vodka to the food processor and process until blended.
Pour the chocolate mixture into a medium bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.
Shape the chocolate mixture into 1 inch balls and roll them in walnuts.
Store the chocolate balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Let the chocolate balls stand at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the coffee-flavored liqueur and vodka with an equal amount of strong brewed coffee or espresso. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, for a varied texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Black-Truffles are perfect, use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for a rich and intense flavor. When rolling the truffles, keep your hands cold to prevent the chocolate from melting. If the mixture becomes too soft to handle, place it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Lastly, toasting the walnuts before incorporating them will enhance their flavor and add an extra layer of crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these luxurious truffles on a platter with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. They pair wonderfully with a cup of espresso or a glass of your favorite dessert wine.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the gentle melting of the chocolate with the hot cream mixture, ensuring a smooth and velvety ganache. Chilling the mixture thoroughly before shaping the truffles is crucial for easy handling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter flavor, milk chocolate can be used in place of bittersweet chocolate. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can substitute for whipping cream, and vegan butter can replace regular butter.

Make Ahead Tips

These truffles can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

For an extra touch of elegance, roll the truffles in gold leaf or edible glitter instead of walnuts. Serve them in mini paper cups on a decorative platter for a stunning display.

Pairing Recommendations

Black-Truffles pair beautifully with fortified wines like Port or a sweet Sherry. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a dark roast coffee or a rich hot chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. There is no need to reheat them; simply allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Black-Truffles contains approximately 200 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the fats and carbohydrates in the ingredients.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Black-Truffles contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the bittersweet chocolate and the added liqueurs, providing a quick source of energy.

Fats

These truffles are rich in fats, with about 15 grams per serving. The fats primarily come from the chocolate, whipping cream, and walnuts, contributing to the truffles' creamy texture and mouthfeel.

Proteins

Black-Truffles offer a modest protein content, with about 3 grams per serving. The protein is sourced from the walnuts and to a lesser extent, the whipping cream.

Vitamins and minerals

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, these truffles do provide some nutritional benefits. Walnuts are a good source of magnesium and vitamin E, while the chocolate contributes iron and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including dairy (whipping cream, butter) and tree nuts (walnuts). Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution.

Summary

Overall, Black-Truffles are a decadent treat best enjoyed in moderation. They offer a rich blend of flavors and textures, along with a modest amount of proteins and some vitamins and minerals from the walnuts.

Summary

These Black-Truffles are a testament to the timeless appeal of chocolate and nuts, enhanced with the depth of coffee liqueur and vodka. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe offers a delightful experience that is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a cool autumn evening and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and stained, a sign of many years of use and love. As I turned the page, a recipe for black truffles caught my eye. The combination of dark chocolate, heavy cream, and cocoa powder sounded rich and decadent, perfect for a special occasion.

I had never attempted to make truffles before, but I was determined to give it a try. I gathered all the ingredients I would need, including the best quality chocolate I could find. As I melted the chocolate and stirred in the cream, the kitchen filled with the rich scent of cocoa. I poured the mixture into a bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator, impatiently waiting for it to set.

Finally, it was time to roll the truffles. I dusted my hands with cocoa powder and carefully scooped out small portions of the chocolate mixture. I rolled them into smooth balls and coated them in more cocoa powder, giving them a velvety finish. As I placed each truffle on a plate, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The rich, creamy chocolate melted on my tongue, leaving behind a lingering sweetness.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. I shared it with friends and family, who were all impressed by the homemade truffles. They couldn't believe that I had made them myself, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered a new skill.

Over the years, I have continued to make black truffles for special occasions and holidays. Each batch is slightly different, depending on the quality of the chocolate or the amount of cream I use. But the basic recipe remains the same, a testament to the enduring power of good food.

I have had the opportunity to learn many recipes from various places and people over the years. Some have come from cookbooks, others from friends, and still others from my own experimentation in the kitchen. But the recipe for black truffles will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy of cooking and sharing food with loved ones.

As I look back on my life spent in the kitchen, I am grateful for all the recipes that have passed through my hands. Each one tells a story, a memory of a meal shared with family or friends. And the recipe for black truffles is no different, a delicious reminder of the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give black truffles a chance. They may seem daunting at first, but the end result is well worth the effort. And who knows, you may just create a new tradition in your own family, one that will be passed down for generations to come. Happy cooking!