TRIVIA: What is a Nutella?

• I. Nutella is a hazelnut spread that originated in Italy in 1964. Infusing hazelnut into chocolate started as a trick among chocolatiers to get more out of their chocolate rations as the treat was scarce during the 1800s. Little did the inventor know that it would result in a product that would change his life.

• II. Since its inception, Nutella has seen massive success, now requiring over 100,000 tons of hazelnut per year to meet the demands of its consumers. Michele Ferrero, the son of Pietro Ferrero (the man behind the original recipe), became the richest man in 2008. Since his passing in 2015, his son, Giovanni, took over as CEO of the Ferrero company.

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• III. There is no question that the Italian hazelnut spread has taken America by storm. Sweet, creamy, nutty, and chocolatey, Nutella is loved by many as a delicious treat to be enjoyed on its own, or a delectable match with bread, icecream, and many other dessert recipes. Imagine if you could make Nutella in the comforts of your own home? If you’ve wondered about this, you should give it a try as it’s not that complicated to do!

• IV. To make homemade Nutella, all you need are chocolate, cocoa, hazelnuts, sugar, and a mixer. Put the hazelnuts on a baking sheet, pop them in the oven and toast for 12 minutes or until the skins have blistered. Remove the loose skin by wrapping them in a towel. Allow the nuts to cool.

• V. On a bowl over a saucepan with simmering water, stir the chocolate until it has completely melted. Allow it to cool. Grind the hazelnuts using a food processor until a paste is formed. Mix in the sugar, oil, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt. Continue beating until it becomes as smooth as possible.

Nutella Cafe opens in Union Square with gooey treats & a (natch …

• VI. Combine the melted chocolate into the mixture and blend well. Strain the mixture using a mesh strainer to remove any hazelnut chunks. You will get a thin and runny mixture while it is warm, but allowing it to cool to room temperature will thicken it. Place your DIY Nutella in a jar or any airtight container. You may store the Nutella for up to two weeks; though let’s be honest here, there’s little chance it will last that long!

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