Why did chocolate balls take the world by storm?

Sweden

Chocolate balls, or chokladboll in Swedish, are often found on restaurant menus in Sweden, where they are slightly larger than here. They used to be called negerbollar, which translates as ''black balls''. They have been renamed several times because the term is offensive, but today they are a symbol of political correctness against racism. They are usually slightly smaller than a golf ball and are made with oat flour, sugar, cocoa, butter, vanilla sugar and sometimes a little coffee. Once shaped, they are rolled in shredded coconut or meal.

Israel

That''s right, they are also known in Israel as kadorei chocolates. Despite being an indispensable part of every Israeli''s childhood, you rarely see them outside Israeli homes. Their main ingredients are cocoa, sugar, milk and biscuits, and unlike other preparations, they don''t use butter - but they are rolled in shredded coconut or colourful sprinkles, just like in other parts of the world.

Although Israeli food has undergone some changes, their balls are still very popular because they are quick, easy and suitable for every pocket. They have the added advantage that the preparation can be adapted to the ingredients available at any given time.

This humble confection is most often served by Israelis on informal occasions and its taste reminds them of home, birthday parties, picnics and childhood. They are not only their favourite recipe, but have also become part of their collective memory.

Brazil

Brigadeiro, or ''brigadir'', is a Brazilian type of chocolate ball. Their Brazilian name dates back to the 1940s when a Brazilian politician and brigadier started raising funds for his campaign by selling his favourite confection - chocolate balls. Despite losing the election, the balls became so popular that they were named after him. Since fresh milk and sugar were not as readily available in those days as they are today, unlike chocolate truffles, they are made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder and butter, and finally rolled in chocolate chips.

They are an important part of Brazilian culture, some even say a national icon - they are made in both the north and the south of the country, and some people eat them straight from the bowl with a spoon. They have a soft and rich taste and are not missing at any birthday party - they are usually eaten after the birthday cake. They are also popular at anniversaries and other gatherings, and are often served to the broken-hearted. For Brazilians, they have an emotional value, as their taste evokes a familiar feeling, bringing back memories of good times spent with family and friends.

There is another type of chocolate ball known to Brazilians as the ''gourmet brigadier'', made with pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts, etc. There are more than 50 different flavours in shops called ''brigadier boutiques''. They are served in pots, jars, tubes, spoons and small boxes reminiscent of jewellery boxes, with quality and fresh ingredients and an elegant presentation. For all these reasons, they have acquired the flattering title of ''gourmet dish'' in Brazil.

They are also well known in Slovenia, where they are prepared in every possible way. Some people prefer them with crumbs, others with coconut, walnuts or hazelnuts. What all these countries have in common is that they are quick and easy to prepare. As they do not require the use of sharp objects or heat treatment, chocolate balls are particularly popular with children. They therefore enjoy and paw at their creation, and of course sing a little in between. If you are tempted, you can make them using this recipe.