If you don’t know this about me already, I have a huge sweet tooth; I love making and eating desserts. Some of my friends, however, are on the other end of the taste spectrum; they enjoy savory foods so much more. For a long time now, chefs have been experimenting different ways for those who want the best of both worlds. Let me share with you my experiences with sweet *and* savory foods that were intriguing, memorable, and surprisingly, tasty!
Bacon Chocolate
Years ago, when I was gift- and souvenir- shopping in SoHo, New York City, I decided to see what Vosges Haut-Chocolat had to offer. The Chicago-based luxury chocolate shop is known for combing chocolate with exotic ingredients and/or spices. This is where I discovered bacon chocolate bars for the first time. I have to admit that it was not “love at first sight” – the thought of bacon and chocolate was new and strange to me. After sampling it, however, I loved the smoky bacon bits and the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth milk chocolate. I’m happy to report that the recipients of these chocolate bars were also fans.
Chocolate Dipped Potato Chips
I have eaten chocolate covered pretzels, nuts, and fruits before, but I have never heard of chocolate dipped potato chips. When I first saw them in a display case at a bakery in Hong Kong two years ago, I knew I had to try them. These chips did not disappoint! The salty flavor from the chip and the sweet chocolate taste blended so well together. This would make a great party snack. Since Hong Kong is a 16-20 hour plane ride away, I will settle for an equally great alternative, Trader Joe’s milk chocolate covered potato chips.
Caramel & Cheddar Popcorn
Also known as “The Chicago Mix,” this mixture of caramel-sweetened popcorn and sharp cheddar cheese popcorn is the ultimate movie snack from Garrett Popcorn Shops. Each bag of crispy popcorn is freshly and evenly mixed with the two flavors, all made to order. The result is an addicting way to satisfy the munchies. Currently, the closest location to Boston is the Garrett in New York City.
Sam’s Sundae
What is a Sam’s Sundae? It’s chocolate ice cream with bergamot olive oil, maldon sea salt and whipped cream – a creation from Bi-Rite Creamery in San Francisco, CA. I had seen this dessert on Best Thing I Ever Ate: Sugar Rush (TV show on The Food Network). When I was in the Bay Area recently, I made a visit to one of the most famous ice cream shops in the US and ordered myself one of these. First impression? All the flavors were very extreme and I didn’t like it right away. After a few bites though and making sure each spoonful had a little bit of each element, it wasn’t bad at all. I ended up finishing the whole bowl! This dessert can definitely be re-created in your own home.
Share with us: what are your favorite sweet and savory foods?
