With today being the frist day of spring and the weather has finally started to climb I wanted to make a recipe that brings me the sweet wisperings of my favorite time of year. Spring is the time of hope and promise to new beginnings as flowers begin to bloom and trees begin to bud. I made this recipe a while ago when navel oranges were back in season and it provided me with fantastic results! I have long loved the deep contrast of citrus and the nutty sweet flavor of caramel and this recipe combines these flavor combinations perfectly. If you are like me and thrilled that spring has finally arrived then this dessert should be at the top your list.

Carmalized Oranges with Chocolate Sauce

Ingredients:

• 8 Navel Oranges
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Juice 3 oranges into a cup. Strain out pulp.
2. Combine sugar and water in a heavy sauce pan and bring to a boil over moderate heat.
3. Boil until sugar crystals begin to caramelize and caramel begins to turn golden brown around the edges. This should take approximately 8-10 minutes.
4. While tilting pan away from you slowly add the orange juice. The caramel will harden and steam vigorously).
5. Stir until caramel is completely dissolved and remove from heat.
6. Cut peal and pith away from the remaining oranges. Then quarter.
7. Heat butter in a nonstick skillet until hot but not smoking. Add orange slices and cook. Turning once and cook until golden.
8. Melt chocolate in a microwave until smooth.
9. Plate the oranges and cover with caramel sauce and melted chocolate.