Chocolate Covered Clementines

OK peeps! We are getting oh-so-close to Christmas. Can you believe it? Today I want to share two of my favorite things, AND I want to give something away!

I’m going to give you a glimpse into my kitchen (this is most definitely NOT the gift). Are you ready?

I pretty much cook in Betty Boop or Cupcake jammie pants and bare feet (or heavy socks in the winter) and a t-shirt that is usually covered with flour (OK – and chocolate). The photos at the top of this site… uh… you will never find me in the kitchen looking like this. It’s not practical or comfortable.

Also… I cook to music. Loud music.  While I enjoy most types of music, when I’m cooking I prefer to listen to classical, theater soundtracks, old musicals, and praise and worship music. Music inspires me. It always has. Sadly, God did not give me the gift of song. Of course, that does not stop me from singing at the top of my lungs… when no one is listening

My newest absolutely favorite CD to listen to while I cook is “Tenore,” timeless hymns and songs of inspiration by three amazing Christian tenors. OK – I’m a bit partial to this particular CD because I adore (big time adore) one of the tenor dudes. Jason Catron (in the middle) is stinking adorable. Around here we call him our Mancub. Each time I hear him sing live, I am moved to tears. His voice ushers me to a sweet place of worship. Looking at his adorableness it is hard to comprehend the voice that comes out of him.

I love this new CD so much that I simply cannot keep it to myself. I think everyone should own it, sing to it, give it to all their friends, wear it out, then quickly buy a replacement!

Here’s the link for a teaser listen and for purchasing the CD: Sing! Presents TENORE.

And, in the spirit of sharing… I am giving one away! Woo Hoo!

Here’s what I want you to do. While this CD is not a Christmas CD, I want you to post a comment letting me know your favorite Christmas CD or all-time favorite Christmas song and why it’s your favorite. The winner will be chosen tomorrow (December 15th) from a random drawing from the comments.

Now, because this is a cooking site, I want to share a favorite recipe too…

I know the holidays can be a bit crazy with all the planning, cooking, church events, etc. So, I want to share a very easy recipe that is pretty, but not rich, heavy and full of calories! How’s that for a better option during these days of too many veggie casseroles laden with fat? (Not that I would turn my back on an ooey gooey cheesy casserole right now but… I’m working on balance!)

Chocolate Covered Clementines are very easy to make and very tasty. It’s just that little taste of something sweet, but not filling, that you need after a big meal.

Chocolate Covered Clementines

Ingredients:

• Clementines
• Dark Chocolate (or semisweet) chocolate chips

All you do is peel the desired amount of clementines and separate segments. Make sure to keep the membrane in tact so the segments are dry. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, waxed paper, or aluminum foil. Melt dark chocolate (or semisweet) in the microwave. Carefully dip half of each clementine segment into the melted chocolate and place on lined baking sheet. Place in refrigerator to set. When ready to serve, arrange in a footed compote dish or other pretty serving dish.

Enjoy the music. Enjoy the yummies. And try to block out the vision of me in my jammie pants.

Sweetest Blessings,
LeAnn