To make chocolate-covered strawberries, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the strawberries
   • Wash the strawberries thoroughly and dry them very well. It is crucial that the strawberries are completely dry because any moisture will prevent the chocolate from sticking properly

2. Melt the chocolate
   • Use chocolate chips (bittersweet, semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate) according to your preference.
   • Melt the chocolate using a microwave or a double boiler. For microwave: heat at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until about half the chocolate is melted. Then stir continuously until fully melted without overheating

 * Optionally, add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil to the chocolate to make it smoother and help it harden faster

3. Dip the strawberries
   • Hold each strawberry by the stem or use toothpicks inserted at the top for easier handling.
   • Dip the strawberry into the melted chocolate, covering it almost to the stem. Lift and twist slightly to let excess chocolate drip off.
   • If desired, immediately dip the strawberry into toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes before the chocolate sets

4. Set the chocolate
   • Place the dipped strawberries on parchment or wax paper-lined baking sheets.
   • Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens

5. Optional decoration
   • For a decorative drizzle, melt a different type of chocolate (e.g., white chocolate) and drizzle it over the set chocolate-covered strawberries using a fork or a piping bag with a small cut corner

6. Storage
   • Store the chocolate-covered strawberries in the fridge, loosely covered, and consume within 24 to 48 hours for best freshness

This simple process yields delicious, elegant chocolate-covered strawberries perfect for special occasions or treats