chocolate mocha pudding

Sorry, no photos for this one. Imagination required!

Uganda is hot pretty much all year round, which is something I've loved about being here! In October we celebrated Thanksgiving in 25 degrees...in December we celebrated Christmas in 25 degrees...in April we celebrated Easter in 25 degrees...and it's still 25 degrees. Or something close to it. But in Vancouver it's only now starting to get warm again after months of clouds and rain. And with summer comes the need for summertime treats, specifically cold chocolate mocha pudding, which reminds me of a fudgesicle, only better. Mmm.

I don't have the luxury of a nearby market that sells fresh berries, but I did manage to scrounge up a few strawberries from our garden - and what the little suckers lack in size they make up for in taste! If you happen to have whipped cream as well, even better.

Chocolate Mocha Pudding

*adapted from 'More-With-Less Cookbook'

1/3 C. sugar

2 Tbsp. cocoa

2 Tbsp. cornstarch

1-2 tsp. instant coffee granules

2 C. milk

1 tsp. vanilla

In a medium saucepan, stir together all ingredients except vanilla.

Cook over low heat until thickened, stirring constantly.

When desired consistency is reached, remove from heat and add vanilla. (It might seem a bit runny, but it will continue to thicken as it cools in the fridge.)

Refrigerate until cold. Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream in individual parfait glasses.