CHOCOLATE-COVERED CHERRY CUSTARD

SERVES 4

Chocolate was almost unheard of in District 12 and would probably have been exciting for Katniss if she hadn’t been on her way to the Quarter Quell. The symbol of luxury on her plate must have been bittersweet.

Custard is one of those deliciously rich desserts that seem like they should be a lot of trouble to make. Fortunately it’s actually rather simple.

½ CUP WHITE SUGAR

¼ CUP CORNSTARCH

3 TABLESPOONS UNSWEETENED COCOA POWDER

DASH OF SALT

2¾ CUPS MILK

2 TABLESPOONS BUTTER

1 TEASPOON VANILLA EXTRACT

¼ POUND BING CHERRIES, PITTED, SLICED IN HALF

In a saucepan, mix together sugar, cornstarch, cocoa and salt.

Place over medium heat and stir in milk.

Bring to a slow boil and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens like pudding.

Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.

Let cool briefly and serve warm.

Garnish with cherry halves.