Steamed Chocolate Pudding
Steamed chocolate pudding is a decadent and warm dessert, perfect for cozy nights or as a special treat. Unlike traditional baked puddings, this dish is steamed, which results in a soft, moist texture that is rich with chocolate flavor. Let's dive into the process of making this delightful dessert from scratch.
Ingredients for Steamed Chocolate Pudding
- Butter (Size of a Walnut): Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture when creamed with sugar.
- 1 Square of Chocolate or 2 Dessert Spoonfuls of Cocoa: Chocolate is the star here, providing that deep, indulgent flavor. You can choose either solid chocolate or cocoa powder, depending on what you have on hand.
- 1/2 Cupful of Sugar: Balances the bitterness of the chocolate and sweetens the pudding.
- 1/2 Cupful of Milk: Adds moisture to the batter and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 Cupful of Flour: The base of the pudding that gives structure.
- 1 Egg: Acts as a binder and gives the pudding a tender, fluffy texture.
- 1 Teaspoonful of Baking Powder: Helps the pudding rise, making it light and airy.
- Salt to Taste: Enhances the flavor of the chocolate and balances the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Steamed Chocolate Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by creaming together the butter and sugar in a medium bowl. Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it mixes easily with the sugar. The result should be light and fluffy, which ensures that your pudding has a smooth and rich texture.
Next, beat in the egg until the mixture is well combined. Once the egg is fully incorporated, add the milk and continue mixing. This liquid helps to loosen the mixture and provides the base for the pudding's smooth texture.
Step 2: Add the Chocolate
If you are using a square of chocolate, melt it gently in a double boiler or microwave, ensuring it doesn't burn. Once melted, stir the chocolate into the batter. If you're opting for cocoa powder, simply mix it into the batter at this stage. Either choice will give the pudding its signature chocolatey richness.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. The baking powder helps the pudding rise during steaming, creating a light texture. Slowly add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding them in gently until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Prepare for Steaming
Prepare your steaming setup by either using a dedicated pudding basin or a heatproof bowl. Lightly grease the inside of the basin or bowl to prevent the pudding from sticking. Pour the batter into the bowl, leaving some room for the pudding to rise. Cover the bowl with a piece of greased parchment paper or foil, ensuring it's tightly sealed so no water can seep in during steaming.
Step 5: Steam the Pudding
To steam, place the covered bowl in a large pot with enough simmering water to reach halfway up the sides of the bowl. Make sure the water doesn’t boil too rapidly, as a gentle simmer will ensure an even cooking process. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the pudding for about an hour and a half. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more as needed to ensure it doesn’t dry out during steaming.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Sauce
Once the pudding is done, carefully remove the bowl from the pot and allow it to cool for a few minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate. The pudding will have a moist, soft texture, and the chocolate aroma will be hard to resist.
This pudding is best served hot, paired with your favorite sauce. A classic choice would be a rich vanilla or caramel sauce, which complements the deep chocolate flavor perfectly. You could also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Approximate Calorie Count
A serving of this steamed chocolate pudding, when divided into six portions, will roughly contain 250-300 calories per serving. The butter, sugar, and chocolate are the main contributors to the calorie count, while the egg and milk provide protein and fat. The richness of the dish makes it a satisfying treat despite its relatively small portion size.