One aspect about food I enjoy the most is the memories and sense of nostalgia it can induce simply by the look, smell or taste of it. I used to help my mother on her Meals on Wheels route when I was younger, and there was a very kind man who always had a box of chocolate covered jelly rings to share with us. These donut-shaped chocolate rings were filled with a raspberry jelly and that man not only introduced me to them, but I haven’t had them since. Yet I distinctly remember the flavor and texture of them, and how much I looked forward to delivering his meals in the hopes that I would be offered a jelly ring. When my coworker brought in some chocolate covered fruits one day, I bit into a chocolate covered prune and took a step back in time. Somehow, chocolate covered prunes tasted exactly like the jelly rings I remember, and the shape is surprisingly close too. If prunes aren’t appetizing to you, just call them dried plums and you’ll be fine. These are a great snack and excellent source of energy and antioxidants.
30 large, juicy prunes
1 cup dark chocolate chips or blocks (65-80% cocoa)
Directions:
1. Place the chocolate in a bowl and set the microwave for 5 minutes at medium power/heat. After 1.5 minutes, stir the chocolate to prevent burning. Continue in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until very few chunks remain. When only a few chunks are left, stir until they melt completely.
2. Line a baking sheet with tin foil. Dip the prunes in the chocolate and place on the foil. If the chocolate becomes to thick, microwave for another 10-15 seconds. Once you are done, place the tray in the freezer for 20 minutes, then place the treats in a sealed container and store in the refrigerator. You can keep them at room temperature but they will sweat/melt a little bit before re-solidifying, but I advise keeping them refrigerated in the summertime.
Note: For the full effect, poke a hole through the middle of the prunes dried plums before dipping in chocolate.