Recently, Suite101 had the privilege of interviewing Sharon Shoot, owner and master chocolatier at Wickerhead Co., a Toronto-based chocolate shop in The Beaches area, made famous for its signature Belgian Chocolate-covered popcorn. Her shop is also known for its popular chocolates shaped like Buddha, and covered in edible gold, as well as the now thematic Venus De Milo chocolate statues. Suite101 and Sharon talked about chocolate, holidays and the art of fine living.
Suite101: There’s a recession going on, and I believe there was one on when you opened in the ‘80’s – what made you decide to go in to chocolate of all things, during hard times?
Sharon: Chocolate will always be the one luxury you can afford, especially in hard times. It’s about instant gratification. We’re all tightening our belts, but chocolate is the one indulgence that is affordable and cheering.
Suite101: What inspired the name, “Wickerhead?”
Sharon: The name Wickerhead was thought up in the late 80’s when I opened my first store. I wanted to create a name that worked with my intentions and also, to have fun with it. In the days of Edwardian England, when mannerly guests would prepare a feast to eat outdoors, they would pack them all up in large wicker baskets and head out to the countryside to enjoy with joie de vivre. While en route, they would be recognized by passers-by, who would refer to them as Wickerheads: One who enjoys the best of things and makes time to enjoy it. Food is such a pleasure, and it can be the simplest of things, but if it’s wonderful, it can transport you to a special place.
Suite101: I’ve noticed that you make chocolate creations in milk, dark, and white chocolate. There’s some controversy around chocolatiers who won’t work with white chocolate as it is a “confection” not a chocolate at all. What is your opinion of white chocolate?
Sharon: White chocolate has no cocoa content or liquor, as it’s cocoa butter. Sort of like the beginning of a good dish. It can create many good things. In fact, I often tell my customers with children that white chocolate has no caffeine, which is a good thing for the little ones. Cocoa butter has many benefits. If you notice it is in many beauty products. That’s no coincidence. It’s natural and full of nourishment. Also in the culinary world, cocoa butter is amazing to cook with because it retains such a high heat. So if you are flash cooking, meaning cooking something quickly to retain freshness by searing in the taste, it’s fab. Fresh veggies are fantastic, as is filet mignon, don’t get me started. Let’s go back to chocolate.
Suite101: I heard that the chocolate Buddha’s were extremely popular – other than their deliciousness, what do you attribute their success to?
Sharon: The Buddha is a symbol of contentment. So is freshly made Belgian Chocolate. I think they are a perfect union. According to Buddha, we are all divine. We just need to be with that mentality. A wonderful piece of Belgian chocolate melting in your mouth helps us get there.
Suite101: What do you think would make a great Chinese New Year’s gift?
Sharon: Something that tastes good and is in good taste. A delectable box of Solid Belgian Chocolate Buddhas need to be eaten daily for good health. Or, for a scotch love, a Bowmore single malt scotch chocolate would be a delectable treat.
Suite101: Valentine’s Day is coming up; What do you think would make a great gift? Sharon: I make our own chocolate hearts – I dress them with cocoa butter for a natural sheen, and fill them with puréed raspberries with a hint of Chambord liqueur. There’s also the handmade solid chocolate Venus De Milo. She’s also dressed in cocoa butter for that natural skin-like finish, and then dusted with pure gold. You can eat her, in more ways than one! (Laughs) I made the cast myself for her mould myself.
Suite101: What would you recommend?
Sharon: Something that shows you understand the person. Something that takes time to enjoy and is a rewarding pleasure for both of you. It can be very simple.. You can give someone a chocolate bar but one with quality and consideration. Find out what they like and go with it. A selection of chocolates is always wonderful because you will be discovering new things together. What can be better than that?
Naomi Szeben - Six-time Editor's Choice Award winner Naomi Szeben puts life into "green and simple living" articles for Suite 101.com. She graduated ...
