Chocolate orange custard

If you’ve ever wondered how to blend the rich flavors of chocolate with the zesty twist of orange into a smooth custard, you’ve come to the right place. The Chocolate orange custard isn’t just any dessert; it’s a flavor-packed journey worth embarking on. AH7 breaks down the steps, the science, and the allure of creating the perfect Chocolate orange custard at home.

Ingredients for Chocolate orange custard:

• Dark chocolate (min. 70% cocoa): 3.5 oz (100 grams)
• Fresh orange zest: from 2 oranges
• Whole milk: 2 cups (475 ml)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Large egg yolks: 4
• Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 grams)
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (30 grams)
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
• Pinch of salt

Preparation and Cooking Time:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 20 minutes
• Chilling: 2 hours
• Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Serves 4

Nutritional Facts per serving:

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 28g

Instructions:

1. Start by finely grating the zest from the oranges and set it aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk and heavy cream over low heat. Do not boil.
3. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until it reaches a creamy consistency.
4. Slowly pour the warmed milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
5. Transfer this combined mixture back to the saucepan.
6. Over medium heat, stir constantly using a wooden spoon until the mixture thickens.
7. Remove from heat and add the finely chopped dark chocolate, vanilla extract, and the reserved orange zest.
8. Stir until the chocolate has completely melted and the custard is smooth.
9. Pour the Chocolate orange custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to ensure a lump-free consistency.
10. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
11. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Tips:

1. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer taste.
2. Ensure you constantly stir the custard while it’s on heat to prevent burning or lump formation.
3. The use of a sieve helps in achieving a silky-smooth texture.
4. Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.

Serving Suggestions:

• Once set, spoon the Chocolate orange custard into individual dessert bowls or ramekins.
• Garnish with some chocolate shavings or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
• Consider serving with a few slices of fresh orange or some orange-flavored wafer biscuits for added flair.
• The custard pairs well with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a herbal tea, balancing the rich flavors.