Chocolate Custard

Directions

1. 1
   Bring the milk just to a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. 2
   Do not boil.
3. 3
   Whisk the yolks and sugar together in a heatproof bowl until pale yellow and thick.
4. 4
   Slowly whisk in the warm milk.
5. 5
   Return the mixture to the saucepan.
6. 6
   Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard coats the spoon (an instant-read thermometer will read 185F (85C)).
7. 7
   Remove from the heat.
8. 8
   Add the chocolate and vanilla.
9. 9
   Let stand until the chocolate softens, then melts.
10. 10
    Strain through a sieve into a bowl.
11. 11
    Serve warm, or let cool, cover, and refrigerate at least 1 hour, until chilled.
12. 12
    Variation: Chocolate-orange Custard
13. 13
    Stir the grated zest of 1 orange to the strained sauce.