Ganache

The Cassell’s French dictionary that I’ve relied upon since junior high school defines ganache as “a well-padded easy chair.” I suppose that’s because a ganache is thought of as the epitome of comfort. It is therefore not a stretch that the word was subsequently applied to the ultimate chocolate confection and comfort food as well. Ganache, this miraculously simple blending of heavy cream and chocolate, transforms firm chocolate into a creamy mixture just right to deliver immediate chocolate impact without your having to wait until the chocolate begins to melt as you would when eating a chocolate bar. And as the chocolate in the ganache slowly melts, a time release of flavor coats your mouth in a satiny-smooth and luxurious bath of pure delight. As if this weren’t enough, butter adds velvety texture and extra flavor enhancement, while adding a little vanilla extract beyond that contained in the chocolate rounds out any possible rough edges and heightens the flavor still further.