How to Melt Chocolate
ByMelting chocolate is a challenge that traditionally can lead to burnt pans and a smokey kitchen! Some home cooks are afraid to try it.
A little secret: you can do it the easy way, no mess and no fuss. Here’s how: Using a microwave safe bowl, put your chocolate into it. It should be in blocks no larger than 1 ounce each. So, if you are not using “baking chocolate” which comes in this size of block, then you will need to chop your chocolate first. Next, put it in the microwave. Microwave power varies but in most, 2 minutes on high will melt your chocolate very nicely.
A couple of things to watch out for with the microwave method for melting chocolate:
-be sure your bowl is microwave-safe
-test a small amount first, for 2 minutes on HIGH. Some microwaves are stronger and will require you to use 70% power or take less time
-after the microwaving time, you might look in and think the chocolate has not melted. When it fact, it might have melted! How can this be? Chocolate in squares or big chunks can retain its shape even when it is melted. So, open the microwave and touch the chocolate with a rubber spatula. Is it softened? That unmelted-looking shape could prove to be melted chocolate after you touch it.
