Spicy Chocolate Pots de Creme
First things first. It is pronounced Po duh Creme as in Do Re Mi and not Pots as in pots and pans. Nothing like serving an elegant dessert and pronouncing it incorrectly! The proper pronunciation also makes it sound mysterious and sophisticated as opposed to familiar and homey.
These have a hint of spice which is subtly felt after you finish a spoon of this creamy lusciousness. As you are anticipating the next spoonful, you feel the subtle heat lingering at the back of your palette.
Pots de creme elevate the finish of your meal yet are deceptively simple to put together.
SPICY CHOCOLATE POTS DE CREME adapted from Chocolate Epiphany by Francois Payard
3 1/3 cups heavy cream
7 ounces 72% chocolate, chopped
1/2 tsp paprika
pinch cayenne pepper
1 egg
3 egg yolks
2 tbsp sugar
Preheat oven to 300.
Combine the cream and chocolate in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the chocolate has melted. Stir in the paprika and cayenne. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolks and sugar until well combined. Whisk the mixture into the chocolate cream. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher or bowl with a pouring spout.
Pour the liquid into six ramekins. Place the dishes on a rimmed baking sheet and pour about 1/2 inch of hot water into the bottom. Cover the dishes with a large sheet of aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour, until the custards are very lightly set. Remove from the oven and let cool after removing the foil. Once cool transfer the dishes to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Top with fresh whipped cream or berries, if desired.
Looks like a lovely recipe! I love the hint of spice!
Looks gorgeous!
Yummy! I doubled the recipe and made this for our supper club and it was very good. We hardly noticed the spice, though, so I might kick it up a notch the next time with just a bit more.
Christi: The spice is subtle and you should taste it just after you finish a bite. Feel free to add more to taste. I just don’t like to overpower anyone if they aren’t familiar with the idea of hot and sweet. So glad you enjoyed it.