Belgian Chocolate


Book Description

* In this book for skilled amateurs and professionals, 13 chocolatiers talk about their work and share their favorite recipes* Includes technical references (origin of the beans, installation, machines, technical sheets) useful to the chocolatier in the making* Pierre Marcolini is one of Belgium's best-known chocolatiers, and is a pioneer in the bean-to-bar movementPierre Marcolini has selected 13 chocolatiers who work according to the bean-to-bar principle, an artisanal approach that focuses on the quality and source of the cacao beans and how they are prepared. These enthusiasts (plus Pierre Marcolini himself) explore their calling, describe how they work, and share three favourite recipes. Whether working for well-established companies or starting in the business, all these chocolatiers share the love of their work, the desire to transmit their know-how, the importance of values such as authenticity and quality, and the aspiration to innovate. Chocolatiers include Cédric De Taeye; Chocolatoa (Mario Vandeneede); Chocolatier M (David Maenhout); Darcis (Jean-Philippe Darcis); Deremiens (François Deremiens); Legast (Thibaut Legast et Patricia Forero); Marcolini (Pierre Marcolini); Mi Joya (Nicolas et Caroline de Schaetzen); Mike & Becky (Björn Becker and Julia Mikerova); Millésime Chocolat (Jean-Christophe Hubert); The Chocolate Line (Dominique Persoone); Van Dender (Herman Van Dender); Zuut (David Van Acker and Pieter De Volder). Technically advanced instructions for professionals are included.




The Economics of Chocolate


Book Description

This book, written by global experts, provides a comprehensive and topical analysis on the economics of chocolate. While the main approach is economic analysis, there are important contributions from other disciplines, including psychology, history, government, nutrition, and geography. The chapters are organized around several themes, including the history of cocoa and chocolate -- from cocoa drinks in the Maya empire to the growing sales of Belgian chocolates in China; how governments have used cocoa and chocolate as a source of tax revenue and have regulated chocolate (and defined it by law) to protect consumers' health from fraud and industries from competition; how the poor cocoa producers in developing countries are linked through trade and multinational companies with rich consumers in industrialized countries; and how the rise of consumption in emerging markets (China, India, and Africa) is causing a major boom in global demand and prices, and a potential shortage of the world's chocolate.




Chocolatour


Book Description




The Temptation of Chocolate


Book Description

l Outlines the social history of chocolate and the many applications of cacao Chocolate creator Neuhaus celebrates its 150th birthday with the ultimate book on chocolate. This sumptuous volume tells the story of Jean Neuhaus in Brussels, the birth of his chocolate pralines, the N of Napoleon - no story is left untold. The book outlines the history of the finest chocolate: from the discovery by Columbus and the conquistadores, to the chocolate route around the world. The Temptation of Chocolate profiles a variety of chocolate designs and stories, covering the different applications of cacao in medicines and cosmetics and the importance of chocolate in movies, literature and theatre. It also includes delicious recipes and illustrations. Also available: Chocolate Decorations ISBN 9789020968293 Chocolate Without Borders ISBN 9789020968194 Fine Chocolates ISBN 9789020959147 Fine Chocolates 2 ISBN 9789020975888 31b/w 256 colour




Chocolate


Book Description

Chocolate is nearly always with us—when celebrating or mourning, in love or alone, healthy or sick, happy or sad. This book offers a comprehensive look at how an exotic food grew to play such a central role in our lives. No food in the world can offer as storied a history as chocolate. Chocolate: A Cultural Encyclopedia focuses on cocoa's history from ancient Mesoamerican beginnings as a symbol of ritual, life, and death, to its omnipresence in Europe, North America, and the rest of the world. In 10 thematic chapters covering chocolate in society and culture, 80 shorter entries, recipes, and a comprehensive timeline, this new book takes a closer look at how chocolate has served as a medicine, an indulgence, a symbol of decadence, a door to romance, a tempting taboo, a means of survival, and a snack for children and adults alike. Why did popes and kings so fear their chocolate? Who invented milk chocolate, and why was its formula kept secret? Why did soldiers in World War II despise their chocolate rations? Who makes the most chocolate today? Find out the answers to these questions and more as this book tells you everything you wanted to know—and a lot you didn't even know existed—about the seed from the world’s favorite fruit tree.




Top 50 Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium


Book Description

This carefully curated list showcases the very best of what Brussels, Belgium has to offer, encompassing a wide range of activities and attractions. The list takes you on a journey through the heart of Brussels, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, world-class museums, and delectable culinary experiences. The first section of the list focuses on the iconic landmarks and historical sites that define the city. From the majestic Grand Place, with its ornate buildings and bustling atmosphere, to the futuristic Atomium, a symbol of Belgium's technological prowess, you'll find yourself captivated by the architectural wonders that Brussels has to offer. The list also includes visits to the Royal Palace of Brussels and the Coudenberg Palace archaeological site, where you can explore the remnants of the city's royal past. Next, the list guides you through Brussels' vibrant cultural scene. With a strong emphasis on art and creativity, the city is home to world-class museums that cater to various interests. Whether you're a fan of surrealism and want to delve into the works of René Magritte at the Magritte Museum, or you're intrigued by the world of comic strips and eager to explore the Belgian Centre for Comic Strip Art, Brussels has something to offer. The list also highlights the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Musical Instruments Museum, providing diverse cultural experiences for all. No visit to Brussels would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The list presents opportunities to savor Belgian chocolate from renowned chocolatiers, enjoy the crispy goodness of Belgian waffles, and sample the wide array of Belgian beers that the city is famous for. From traditional street food like Belgian fries to exquisite dining experiences, Brussels is a food lover's paradise. Lastly, the list showcases the unique neighborhoods and events that contribute to the city's vibrant atmosphere. From exploring the charming Marolles neighborhood and its flea market to experiencing the buzzing nightlife of the Saint-Géry area, Brussels offers a diverse range of experiences. Additionally, the list recommends attending cultural events like the Ommegang Festival and the Brussels Jazz Marathon, which bring the city to life with music, performances, and historical reenactments. With this comprehensive list, you can fully immerse yourself in the essence of Brussels, uncovering its historical, cultural, and culinary treasures. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to the city, these activities and attractions will ensure a memorable and enriching experience in Brussels, Belgium.




Chocolate Decorations


Book Description

A comprehensive and practical guide by famous Master Chocolatier Jean-Pierre Wybauw. With clear action images and brilliant photography by Frank Croes. More than 100 delicious and original chocolate decoration techniques, explained very clearly. A must-have for professionals and advanced amateurs. AUTHOR: Jean-Pierre Wybaum, in heart and soul a teacher of chocolate and confectionary technology, has been an adviser and instructor with Barry-Callebaut for 34 years. He constantly travels around the globe to teach professionals the tricks of the trade and give lectures at famous trade schools. For years he has been a valued judge during international contests and in 2002 he was voted Chef of the Year by the Culinary Institute of America. Frank Croes is a renowned photographer, who specialized in culinary photography. SELLING POINTS: * Includes more than 100 chocolate decoration techniques and instructions * A perfect source fbook of ideas 460 colour photographs




Sweet Treats around the World


Book Description

From apple pie to baklava, cannoli to gulab jamun, sweet treats have universal appeal in countries around the world. This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive look at global dessert culture. Few things represent a culture as well as food. Because sweets are universal foods, they are the perfect basis for a comparative study of the intersection of history, geography, social class, religion, politics, and other key aspects of life. With that in mind, this encyclopedia surveys nearly 100 countries, examining their characteristic sweet treats from an anthropological perspective. It offers historical context on what sweets are popular where and why and emphasizes the cross-cultural insights those sweets present. The reference opens with an overview of general trends in desserts and sweet treats. Entries organized by country and region describe cultural attributes of local desserts, how and when sweets are enjoyed, and any ingredients that are iconic. Several popular desserts are discussed within each entry including information on their history, their importance, and regional/cultural variations on preparation. An appendix of recipes provides instructions on how to make many of the dishes, whether for school projects or general entertaining.




Modelling Natural Language with Claude Shannon’s Notion of Surprisal


Book Description

Have you ever wondered how the principles behind Shannon's groundbreaking Information Theory can be interwoven with the intricate fabric of linguistic communication? This book takes you on a fascinating journey, offering insights into how humans process and comprehend language. By applying Information Theory to the realm of natural language semantics, it unravels the connection between regularities in linguistic messages and the cognitive intricacies of language processing. Highlighting the intersections of information theory with linguistics, philosophy, cognitive psychology, and computer science, this book serves as an inspiration for anyone seeking to understand the predictive capabilities of Information Theory in modeling human communication. It elaborates on the seminal works from giants in the field like Dretske, Hale, and Zipf, exploring concepts like surprisal theory and the principle of least effort. With its empirical approach, this book not only discusses the theoretical aspects but also ventures into the application of Shannon's Information Theory in real-world language scenarios, strengthened by advanced statistical methods and machine learning. It touches upon challenging areas such as the distinction between mathematical and semantic information, the concept of information in linguistic utterances, and the intricate play between truth, context, and meaning. Whether you are a linguist, a cognitive psychologist, a philosopher, or simply an enthusiast eager to dive deep into the world where language meets information, this book promises a thought-provoking journey.




Food Culture in Belgium


Book Description

Belgian food and drink, often overshadowed by the those of powerhouse neighbors France and Germany, receive much deserved attention in this thorough overview, the most comprehensive available in English. Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer are renowned, but Food Culture in Belgium opens up the entire food culture spectrum and reveals Belgian food habits today and yesterday. Students and food mavens learn about the question of Belgianness in discussions of the foodways of distinct regions of Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels. Packed with daily life insight, consumption statistics, and trends gathered from the culinary community on the Web, this is the ultimate source for discovering what has been called the best-kept culinary secret in Europe. Scholliers thoroughly covers the essential information in the topical chapters on history, major foods and ingredients, cooking, typical meals, special occasions, eating out, and diet and health. He is keen to illuminate how Belgium's unique food culture has developed through time. Before independence in 1830, Belgian regions had been part of the Celtic, Roman, Spanish, Austrian, French, Dutch, and German empires, and Belgium's central location has meant that it has long been a trade center for food products. Today, Brussels is the European Union administrative center and a cosmopolitan dining destination. Readers learn about the ingredients, techniques, and dishes that Belgium gave to the world, such as pommes frites, endive, and beer dishes. A timeline, glossary, selected bibliography, resource guide with websites and films, recipes, and photos complement the essays.