In those enchanting days, creative chefs masterfully combined an assortment of nuts, seeds, and spices such as fennel, caraway, and almonds with the sweet embrace of sugar. The result? A divine concoction known as "comfits." These sweet delights, resembling the confetti of modern celebrations, added a touch of magic to weddings and festive occasions.

The 15th century in England witnessed the meteoric rise of these comfits, captivating even the most refined palates.

These sugary gems were believed to aid digestion, offering a delightful solution after indulging in hearty meals. Imagine sipping on spiced wine while nibbling on these comfits—reminiscent of an ancient remedy for the stomach.

Now, let us cross the Channel and find ourselves in France, where confectioners weaved their creative spells into the world of chocolate. It was during this era that chocolate drops emerged, playfully resembling rabbit droppings. However amusing, these chocolate drops melted with the gentlest touch, presenting a conundrum for those who adored their taste.

As history would have it, the early 18th century unveiled a brilliant solution. A cadre of ingenious confectioners devised a method known as "panning." With this technique, the chocolate drops were meticulously covered in a protective sugar coating—a barrier against the ravages of warmth and time. This innovation marked the dawn of chocolate-covered raisins as we know them today, a true testament to human ingenuity and our unwavering passion for all things sweet.

If you're feeling adventurous and want to embark on your own culinary escapade, why not try creating your very own chocolate-covered raisin clusters?

With just two simple ingredients, you can transform your kitchen into a realm of enchantment.

Chocolate-Covered Raisin Clusters: A Culinary Journey through Time and Taste

Ingredients:

600g of your preferred chocolate (dark, milk, or white), finely chopped
600g of plump raisins, waiting to be embraced by chocolate's magic

Method:

Prepare four generously sized baking sheets, adorning them with a layer of baking paper.
Begin by melting 400g of the chopped chocolate in the microwave, employing short bursts until it transforms into a velvety river of delight. Be cautious not to let it exceed 50°C.
Gradually introduce the remaining 200g of chocolate to the mix, gently guiding its temperature to a soothing 32°C.
Introduce the raisins to their chocolatey embrace, ensuring each raisin is coated in an enchanting layer of cocoa goodness. Utilise a teaspoon to create clusters of raisins, placing them on two of the lined baking sheets.
As the aroma of chocolate and raisins fills the air, allow the clusters to cool and solidify into delectable treasures.

To savour these wondrous creations at their finest, store them in airtight containers, nestled between layers of baking paper. Your chocolate-covered raisin clusters will thrive in a cool, dark haven for up to a month, inviting you to relish the flavours of a bygone era.

And there you have it, an invitation to indulge in a journey through time and taste, all within the cozy confines of your very own kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chocolate alchemist, and embark on a culinary adventure that bridges the past and the present.

May your creations be as delightful as the stories woven into the rich tapestry of chocolate's history. Until we meet again, happy chocolate crafting!

I wrote a blog in more detail on how to pan using chocolate here