How does a Double Boiler help with heat insulation?

[jes]

My favorite TV Chef - Micheal Smith advocates that chocolate be melted in a bowl placed over boiling water in order to insulate the delicate chocolate from direct heat. How does this work? Wouldn't the result be the same if the chocolate was melted in a sauce pan over a low heat?

 

[Andy M.]

My favorite TV Chef - Micheal Smith advocates that chocolate be melted in a bowl placed over boiling water in order to insulate the delicate chocolate from direct heat. How does this work? Wouldn't the result be the same if the chocolate was melted in a sauce pan over a low heat?

It's more difficult to manage the heat so chocolate doesn't burn if you put choc. into a metal pan and turn on the heat. Using a double boiler gives you a gentle, constant heat that's easier on the choc.

 

[jes]

Ah, a more even heat, then. Is that what you mean by "gentle" ?

 

[Andy M.]

Ah, a more even heat, then. Is that what you mean by "gentle" ?

With a double boiler, you're pretty much assured of moist, uniform heat to a max. temp of 212º F. No hot spots of burning from a flame adjusted a little too high.

 

[jes]

Right. That follows.

Thanks for the replies.