Budino Margot - Italian Chocolate Pudding

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 500ml (2 cups) whole milk 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 40g (1/3 cup) cornstarch 40g (1/3 cup) cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream, for garnish Whipped cream, for garnish
• Cocoa powder, for dusting Cocoa powder, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dark chocolate and milk. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the sugar mixture into the saucepan with the chocolate mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. 4.
   Increase the heat to medium and continue whisking until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5.
   Once the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or ramekins.
6. 6.
   Allow the Budino Margot to cool to room temperature, then cover each dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
7. 7.
   Before serving, garnish each pudding with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dark chocolate — Use a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for the best flavor and texture.
• Cornstarch — Make sure to whisk the cornstarch with the sugar and other dry ingredients before adding it to the chocolate mixture to prevent clumps from forming.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra indulgent twist, add a splash of liqueur such as amaretto or rum to the pudding mixture before cooking.
• To achieve a perfectly smooth texture, strain the pudding mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the serving dishes.
• Experiment with different toppings such as shaved chocolate, crushed nuts, or fresh berries to add a touch of variety to your Budino Margot.

Serving advice

Serve the Budino Margot chilled for the best experience. The contrast between the cool, creamy pudding and the rich chocolate flavor is truly delightful.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, consider serving the Budino Margot in elegant glass dessert cups or small bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a visually appealing finish.