Bengali-style Chocolate Spread

Ingredients

In this Bengali adaptation of Pålægschokolade, we infuse the spread with traditional Bengali spices like cardamom and cinnamon. These spices add a warm and aromatic touch to the chocolate, giving it a distinct Bengali flavor profile. Additionally, we use ghee (clarified butter) instead of regular butter to enhance the richness and authenticity of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pålægschokolade, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, chopped 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup condensed milk 1/2 cup condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate, condensed milk, and ghee.
2. 2.
   Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, creating a double boiler. Stir occasionally until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. 3.
   Remove the bowl from heat and add the ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well to incorporate the spices.
4. 4.
   Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar.
5. 5.
   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the spread has thickened and set.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dark chocolate — Use good quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich and intense flavor.
• Ghee — If ghee is not available, you can substitute it with unsalted butter.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground chili powder or finely chopped green chilies.
• Customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of condensed milk according to your preference.
• Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for additional flavor variations.
• Store the Bengali-style Chocolate Spread in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Serving advice

Spread the Bengali-style Chocolate Spread generously on freshly baked bread or serve it as a dip for crispy Bengali-style biscuits. It can also be used as a filling for pastries or as a topping for desserts like ice cream or pancakes.

Presentation advice

Transfer the Bengali-style Chocolate Spread to a decorative jar and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a few chocolate shavings. Serve it alongside a platter of assorted bread or biscuits for an inviting presentation.