2/3 cup sugar
6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
3 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Candied Orange Peel (recipe follows)
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk the sugar, cocoa, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chocolate, orange zest, and orange juice. Let stand until the chocolate melts, then stir until smooth.
3. Divide the pudding among 4 small bowls. Let cool for about 20 minutes to serve warm and soft, or let cool and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve with candied orange peel.
Makes 4 servings
Candied Orange Peel
Because you’ll be eating the peel, it’s best to use organic oranges.
1 orange, scrubbed
1 1/2 cups sugar
1. Using a small, sharp knife, remove the zest in long strips, avoiding the white pith. Slice into thin strips.
2. In a saucepan, bring the zest and 2 cups cold water to a boil, drain the zest in a sieve. Repeat.
3. In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of the sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil. Add the zest, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain the zest and let it cool.
4. Place the remaining 1/2 cup sugar in a bowl. Add the peel and toss to coat. Remove the pieces. Store in an airtight container for several weeks.
Warm Chocolate Pudding With Candied Orange Peel
This luscious pudding is pure heaven for chocolate lovers. Orange adds a bright flavor that enlivens chocolate.