The Ultimate Chocolate Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Working over a large bowl, sift 1/2 cup of the sugar with the cocoa, cornstarch and salt.
2. 2
   Whisk in 1/2 cup of the milk to make a smooth paste; scrape the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula to be sure everything is well mixed.
3. 3
   Put the chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
4. 4
   In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of milk and 1/4 cup of sugar and bring just to a simmer over moderately high heat, stirring.
5. 5
   Reduce the heat to moderately low and stir in the cocoa paste.
6. 6
   Whisking constantly, boil the mixture for 1 minute.
7. 7
   Strain the mixture over the chocolate in the bowl.
8. 8
   Add the vanilla and stir until the pudding is smooth.
9. 9
   Pour the pudding into six glasses or 1-cup ramekins and let cool to room temperature.
10. 10
    Cover the puddings and refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours.