How To Melt Chocolate
Stove Top method
Place chocolate squares in small heavy saucepan. Cook on low heat until chocolate is completely melted, stirring constantly. Or, place chocolate squares in top section of double boiler or in heatproof bowl set over a larger pan of simmering, not boiling, water. (The bottom of the bowl should not touch the hot water.) Stir occasionally until chocolate is completely melted. Note: Do not get any water or steam in the melted chocolate or it will seize and become grainy and unusable.
Microwave method
Place completely unwrapped squares of chocolate in a microwaveable bowl. Microwave on HIGH 1 min. stirring after every 30 sec. (The square will retain its shape) Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Add 10sec for each additional square of chocolate.
How to Store Chocolate
Keep chocolate in a cool dry place (below 75°F, if possible), but not in the refrigerator. At high temperatures, chocolate grays in color when the cocoa butter naturally rises to the surface. This does not affect the chocolate flavor or quality.
