We eat to live. This is true. Equally true is the reverse principle, that some of us live to eat. The following column exists only for those in the latter category. If you are one of us, welcome brethren, there is much to share with one another.

Now a smaller number of those who live to eat are those who live to eat but one thing, learning to enjoy the rest only as a necessary prelude to our goal. You know of what I speak. It is what brightens your day, answers your prayers, soothes you, comforts you, guides and sustains you.

Chocolate. Say it aloud. Chocolate. The very word itself is magical. How then could consuming it be anything less?

In ancient times chocolate was considered to be of higher value than gold. It was used as a currency, worshipped as gift from the heavens and believed to hold power enough to sway kings and conquer lands. It was also lauded for its ability to elicit and enhance the love of another. Tell me, has anything much changed?

I personally attribute this eternal obsession with chocolate to two things. Naturally it begins and ends with the sensory experience of it. In all its forms, chocolate's taste, smell and texture are smooth, vibrant and evocative. Why else would it engage us so? Further, chocolate mirrors so well human emotions. We too can be the key ingredient in a myriad of things. We have different textures and looks and moods. We too can transform.

You may say I have put entirely too much thought into my theory. Perhaps you are right. But if you have ever found yourself standing in front of the fridge with a can of frosting in your hand or wishing there was a way to fit your entire head into a bowl of batter then you too will need a theory.

So hide not in shame. Choose only the check-out lines that sell candy. Follow every meal with a bit of chocolate. Be moderate (sometimes) but never deny the self, it will make you cranky.

Chocolate lovers of the world unite and break your chains!!

What follows is a recipe for truffles, one of the more cosmopolitan permutations of chocolate. Luckily for all it is surprisingly, delightfully simple--thus making it the perfect chocolate gift to bestow on a loved one. The next time a holiday rolls around or the need to convey your love and appreciation arises, I suggest this as an alternative to the mundane gifts we usually reach for.

This recipe makes about forty truffles but they freeze well and need only to be thawed for an hour or so before serving. The recipe is designed to permit personal tastes so experiment and taste and enjoy!

You will need :

The Directions :
over extremely low heat, slowly melt the chocolate in a small pan be sure to stir often!