Ooh La La! Aphrodisiac-Packed Pots de Crème
Valentine’s Day is near and, whether you are with or without a love this year, there is no denying the river of chocolate on every corner. Jessica here, and instead of picking up a generic box of chocolates, we propose a simple (and very rich) little chocolate dish that tastes like you slaved all day.
Dating back to the 17th century, pots de créme are a classic standard and have been used a fair share of times as a tool for romance… but add a smattering of spiced rum and this definitely ain’t your Parisian grandma’s recipe. This is the kind of culinary fare that goes with five-course meals, candlelight, forgetting what time it is, and famous Robert Frost quotes like “love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired.”
Ok, so we won’t get carried away, but traditionally they are served in little pots with lids, ramekins or espresso cups. Of course, it wouldn’t be Brit + Co. without a twist. In addition to spiking these with a bit of rum, we’ve added extra aphrodisiac power with almonds and strawberries. Just remember, we aren’t responsible for what happens after the spoons are licked clean ;)
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 12 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
– 4 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons rum (optional), can substitute 2 tsp. vanilla
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– aphrodisiacs for garnish: almond slivers, strawberries, cinnamon, colorful sugar
For chocolate, we went with Green & Black’s Organic Dark. So yummy.
In a medium saucepan, heat the cream until bubbly. Remove the pan from the heat, add the chocolate and let stand for 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
Whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl, then whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot chocolate cream. Add into the saucepan and whisk constantly until smooth. Stir in the rum and butter. Pour the custard into eight 4 oz. ramekins or espresso cups and refrigerate until chilled, at least 4 hours.
To take these pots to the next aphrodisiac level (as if chocolate and rum weren’t enough), add sliced strawberries and almonds, and a little bit of sparkly sugar!
What are your favorite chocolate desserts? Tell us in the comments below.
