Chocolate lovers everywhere appreciate quality. Good ingredients make good chocolate and Belgian chocolate has a reputation for being the best. This may have been the boast of the Swiss at one time, before the Belgians raced ahead. There is a long tradition of chocolate making in Belgium, which only needed a good marketing campaign to bring it to the attention of the rest of us. There are even chocolate museums there!

In 1912, the filled chocolate recipe known as the praline was invented in Belgium. The residents there have always been fond of exchanging chocolates as presents and they are very proud of the worldwide popularity of their export. The key to the high standard of Belgian chocolate lies in the selection of the best cocoa seeds and other ingredients. It’s apparent when inferior cocoa is used in any chocolate as it leaves an unpleasant after taste. Good chocolate always gives a rich, full flavor, which lingers in the mouth. The Belgian manufacturing process is done mainly by hand, including the final decoration.

The range of products is wide, with different center fillings in plain, milk and white chocolate. The attention to quality applies to the packaging too, and Belgian chocolate makes the ideal gift, all tied up in a ribbon. Fillings include liqueurs, fruit, caramel, buttercream, ganache and mocha. There is also nougat, whipped cream, ginger, almonds, coffee, cinnamon spice and rum. If you feel like experimenting with unusual flavors, there is coriander, lime or jasmine tea.

Chocolate can be taken in many forms and is gorgeous in chocolate mousse, cake and truffles. Belgian chocolate that is used in cooking will make everything taste better than normal. It’s also a good idea for chocolate fountains. This marvelous invention is all the rage for parties and receptions. They are the answer to a chocoholic’s prayer, with rivers of warm, liquid chocolate. The idea is to dip things like fruit and biscuits into the chocolate goo. Strawberries and bananas work very well, as do marshmallows and fudge. You can get Belgian chocolate refills for the fountain, so you never have to run out. You can even dismantle the fountain to put in the dishwasher.

Continental chocolate in general has much to teach the rest of the world. Some chocolate is overfilled with milk or sugar, preventing the full flavor of the cocoa to come through. The Aztecs knew the value of the cocoa bean and didn’t have any sugar to sweeten it.

When February 14th rolls around each year millions of people scramble to find something special to give to the person they love. We seem to be inundated with Valentine gift ideas soon after the New Year celebrations are over. Although Valentine chocolate continues to be the most popular present, there are many other fun and romantic things you can give.

Greeting cards are always welcomed when it comes to displaying your affection. You can certainly opt to purchase one of the hundreds of pre-made greeting cards that are found in many stores. For a more personal touch consider making your own. Some of the most touching Valentine gift ideas are those that are handmade.

Another idea that involves making something for your sweetheart is enlarging a photograph. Most people have many images of them and the person they adore. If you take one that depicts an especially poignant moment in your relationship and have it enlarged, you can then frame it. A simple black and white image of a special moment is one of the most loved Valentine gift ideas there is. It’s also incredibly personal and memorable.

Stuffed animals usually are chosen by the younger crowd to give to one another. During this time of year there are many teddy bears and puppy dogs wearing t-shirts with words of love on them. These Valentine gift ideas are usually a big part of the teenage crowd who want to give something cute to one another. Many adults would also find themselves smiling were they to receive a surprise stuffed animal in their Valentine gift bag.

Jewelry is a bit extravagant but it makes a breathtaking gift. Although most of us think of women being the recipients of these Valentine gift ideas, many men enjoy wearing jewelry too. If marriage is in your near future, Valentine’s Day is a perfect time for a marriage proposal. A woman might consider giving the man she loves a silver or gold watch. Having it engraved makes it even more precious.

You simply can’t argue the beauty found in flowers. Traditionally roses are the flower given as a symbol of love but it’s just one of the many floral Valentine gift ideas. The type of arrangement chosen should be a reflection of the woman receiving them. If she loves lilies, fill a vase with them and if daises are her favorite, give her a basket full. Always remember that you want the person receiving the flowers to truly enjoy and embrace them.