Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Salty & Sweet!

February 25 is...

A day to enjoy some of life's finest: Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't but when do you not feel like chocolate? Of course, this would exclude those who actually do not indulge in chocolate, perhaps some that even experience allergic reactions. For us who are the true chocoholics, chocolate is the bomb, the kicker, the stimulant, an upper, a Mr. Feelgood! Then, to combine it with the salty, nutty nut, you get the crunch along with that smooth rich chocolaty covering. So, what exactly is today? It is...

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE COVERED NUT DAY

Milk Pecan Clusters

aka

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE COVERED PEANUT DAY

Milk Chocolate Covered Peanuts

Dipping nuts and fruit into chocolate became popular as early as the 19th century. People even believed that chocolate had divine properties. Nuts themselves have been a staple of the human diet for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans were fond of the walnut, Native Americans enjoyed the pecan, and the Chinese believed the hazelnut was one of the five sacred nourishments. However, the first nuts covered in chocolate were sold commercially in America in 1925, with Goobers being the oldest brand.

Image Source: en.wikipedia.org

Coated nuts have a reputation for being a snack to enjoy while watching movies, they even go great with popcorn. It’s not certain when chocolate-covered peanuts were first awarded their own day, but it’s thought the unofficial festival originated in the U.S.

Although many brands of chocolate covered nuts are available to buy, it’s more fun – and cheaper – to make your own. All you need to do is to melt some chocolate in a pan, add in the peanuts and stir it all up. To make them extra special, sprinkle them with sea salt. Don't forget to allow the nuts to cool before eating.

Go nuts and enjoy the day!

Is your mouth watering yet?