Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Pudding

This simple and easy chocolate dessert folds rich dark chocolate and dates into a smooth, decadent pudding that’s perfect for a romantic meal. Add a little fresh strawberry and mint to give this dreamy pudding all the look and feel of a fancy restau… — This simple and easy chocolate dessert folds rich dark chocolate and dates into a smooth, decadent pudding that’s perfect for a romantic meal. Add a little fresh strawberry and mint to give this dreamy pudding all the look and feel of a fancy restaurant dessert. (Photo source: Jared Kent)

| Yield: 4 servings | Time: 20 minutes active; 4 hours passive |

Ingredients

8 Medjool dates, pitted

¾ cup almond or coconut milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

5 ounces dairy-free dark chocolate chips or chunks

½ teaspoon salt

For serving

fresh strawberries, rinsed and sliced

fresh mint leaves

Preparation

In a blender or food processor, combine the dates, almond or coconut milk, and vanilla and blend until very smooth. (At least 2-3 minutes, stopping once or twice to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula.) Meanwhile, melt the chocolate in a bowl over a small pot of simmering water, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula just until the chocolate is totally melted.

Add the melted chocolate and the salt into the blender with the date mixture and blend for 1-2 more minutes until the mixture is smooth and the chocolate is completely incorporated.

Transfer the chocolate mix into small ceramic bowls and refrigerate for 3-4 hours until set. They should have a smooth, thick, pudding-like consistency.

Once set, serve the pudding with sliced strawberries and mint.

Zero-waste tips

• Blend the green tops of the strawberries with some nuts, basil, and olive oil to make a delicious strawberry-top pesto.

• Add any leftover mint leaves to a glass of lemonade.