The idea for this recipe came to me on a sun-drenched afternoon at a local farmer’s market. Stalls were filled with vibrant fruits, but it was the peculiar ones that caught my eye—dragon fruit, rambutan, and starfruit. I imagined transforming these exotic ingredients into something extraordinary. Thus, the concept of chocolate-covered fruit leather with a spicy chili twist was born. This dessert not only celebrates the natural sweetness of the fruits but also introduces a playful heat that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.
### Ingredients
– 2 cups of mixed exotic fruits (dragon fruit, rambutan, starfruit, or your choice)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust based on fruit sweetness)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 4 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for a smoother chocolate coating)
### Instructions
Prepare the Fruit Puree
Begin by washing and peeling the exotic fruits as necessary. Cut them into small chunks and place them in a blender or food processor. Add the honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, chili powder, and sea salt. Blend until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
Create the Fruit Leather
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Pour the fruit puree onto the lined baking sheet and spread it out evenly using a spatula, aiming for about 1/8 inch thickness. If you want a more textured finish, you can swirl the mixture lightly with a spoon.
Dry the Fruit Leather
Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven set to the lowest temperature (usually around 150°F or 65°C). Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Let the puree dry for about 4-6 hours, checking regularly. The fruit leather is ready when it feels dry to the touch but still slightly tacky.
Melt the Chocolate
Once the fruit leather is ready, break the dark chocolate into smaller pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. If using coconut oil, add it to the chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Coat the Fruit Leather
Carefully lift the dried fruit leather from the baking sheet and cut it into strips or desired shapes. Dip each piece into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the pieces on a wire rack or parchment paper to set.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has hardened, your chocolate-covered exotic fruit leather is ready to be enjoyed! These delightful treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The combination of chewy fruit leather, rich chocolate, and a kick of chili will undoubtedly surprise and delight anyone who tries them.
Let your creativity flow by experimenting with different fruits or adjusting the chili level for a more intense experience. This unique dessert not only looks like a work of art but also tells a story of flavors that dance on the palate. Enjoy the adventure!