SHARE THE LOVE

I love collecting apt quotations. I added a new one to my collection today:


"The torch of love is lit in the kitchen."


Isn't that the truth? There are lots of cliches about food and love. The funny thing is that most of them ring true. The kitchen has always been the heart of every home I've lived in. I don't think my cooking every hurt my chances with a man. And you already know my feelings about "Food is love."


If you want to "share the love," just whip up these fast, simple flourless cakes with a pudding-like center.


CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKES
3 sticks unsalted butter
3/4 cup water
12 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped (use a GOOD chocolate)
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 tbs instant coffee
pinch of salt
3 tbs dark rum OR coffee liqueur OR your favorite liqueur
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
6 large eggs


Preheat oven to 350 degrees and butter six (6) one and one-quarter (1 1/4) cup custard cups or souffle cups. Combine the butter and water in a large, heavy saucepan over medium high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until the butter is completely melted. Remove from the heat, then add the chocolate, sugar, coffee, and salt. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the liqueur and the vanilla. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until blended. Gradually whisk in the chocolate mixture. Divide the chocolate mixture among the prepared cups. Bake until the edges crack slightly but the center 2 inches remain glossy and soft (about 25 minutes). Serve the cakes warm. They're wonderful with a dab of whipped cream and raspberry sauce or vanilla ice cream.