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Salted Almond and Pistachio Bark

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Salted Almond and Pistachio BarkAndrew Purcell

Kosher Status: Pareve

Bark is one of the easiest things to make. Just ask any tree.

Okay, the poet Joyce Kilmer may have written that only God can make a tree, but we mortals can make a pretty mean chocolate bark (I said that last part). All you need is a microwave and a fridge. And some chocolate.

So, like once a year I get my nails done—my fantasies about having a weekly standing appointment are second only to my fantasies about living in a spa. Anyway, on the occasional days that I get there, they always have Food Network on. One day, I saw Ina Garten make a French chocolate bark, and I thought, How easy-peasy is that? I'm gonna try it. I think that show was at least four years ago, but I remembered it. I have a great memory for some things. My day to drive carpool, not so much; but a recipe idea I want to make stays with me forever.

Cooks' Note

TIME-SAVER

Use 2 1/2 cups trail mix in place of the almonds and pistachios.

VARIATION

Make French Chocolate Bark like Ina's, which is essentially a combo of dried fruits and nuts sprinkled on top of your bark (as opposed to mixed in). The fruits remind me of shiny jewels. (They know how to do it in France.) Dried apricots, cranberries, cherries, pineapple—anything you like works. Add cashews or peanuts or nuts of your choice. Just coarsely chop your topping; you will need about 2 1/2 cups' worth.

DRESS IT DOWN

Kiddie Candy Bark

Instead of making bark with nuts and salt, try chopped-up candy bar pieces, crushed pretzels, or mini marshmallows. Experiment with interesting combinations.

PAIR IT Capçanes Peraj Petita

Not a sweet wine, but it's so fruity and versatile that it goes with most anything, even salty/sweet dessert.

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