Strawberry Pudding Parfait

Ingredients

PUDDING

• 2 1/4 cups whole milk
• 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• (Makes about 2 cups)

STRAWBERRY SAUCE

• 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 8 Tablespoons water
• 4 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoon water
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• (Makes about 2 cups)

GARNISH

• 4 ounces nice flavored chocolate chunks
• *optional, whipped cream

Directions

PUDDING

1. In a large saucepan combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. while constantly whisking, mix in 1/4 cup of the milk until smooth. Whisk in the egg yolks and remaining milk.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking often, until the pudding begins to thicken and just starts to bubble, about 5 to 6 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium low and stir constantly,stir with a rubber spatula scraping the bottom and sides of the pan, 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and completely incorporated.
5. Let cool before assembling the parfaits.

STRAWBERRY SAUCE

1. Make the strawberry sauce first so you have time to chill it before assembling the parfaits.
2. Use clean strawberries.
3. Remove the stem and cut the berries into small pieces.
4. Put the strawberries and sugar into a small saucepan.
5. Add the water and stir together.
6. Heat the berries on the stovetop, bringing them to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat, stir occassionally and cook for 5 minutes.
8. To thicken the topping we will need to add the cornstarch.
9. A good method of adding cornstarch is to first put a little water into the cornstarch and stir to combine.
10. Now spoon a little of the hot mixture into the wet cornstarch mixture and stir with a fork.
11. Add back to the strawberries.
12. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes.
13. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.
14. Pour into a container.
15. Your strawberry topping is ready for you to use as you wish. Keep refrigerated.

ASSEMBLY

1. Choose 4 glasses.
2. Bottom layer, strawberry sauce
3. Middle layer, pudding
4. Top layer, strawberry sauce
5. Garnish with chopped chocolate chunks and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.