Vegan Chocolate Truffles
1 cup full-fat coconut milk, stirred well
10½ ounces dairy-free dark chocolate (preferably 75 percent or higher cacao), finely chopped
½ cup freeze-dried strawberries (about ½ ounce)
¼ cup unsweetened, (dried) coconut
2 tablespoons chopped pecans or nut of your choice
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon chipotle powder
Heat the coconut milk in a small pan over low heat until it's just starting to bubble.
Place the chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. Immediately pour the warm coconut milk over it, whisking to form a smooth ganache. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set, 1 to 2 hours.
Grind the dried strawberries to a fine powder in a mini food processor or clean spice grinder, then transfer the powder to a small bowl. Place the coconut, pecans, cocoa powder and chipotle powder in separate small bowls.
Once the truffle mixture has set, uncover it. Grease your hands with cooking oil spray and use a tablespoon-size scoop or #100 disher to scoop out a ball, then roll it lightly between your palms. Place on a tray, and repeat to create balls using the remaining truffle mixture. (Your palms will become covered in chocolate as you work, and the balls will soften on the outside, but that's OK.)
Use a fork to help lift and toss the truffles. Roll some of them in strawberry powder, some in coconut, some in pecans, some in cocoa powder, some in chipotle powder (for those who don't mind something fiery) or in a mix of chipotle and cocoa (for a kick that's a little milder) until well-coated. You may need to use your fingers to press in the coconut and the pecans. Set each one into a paper candy cup as you finish.
When all the truffles are made, pack them into an airtight container (being careful not to stack them) and refrigerate until ready to serve - or give. The finished truffles can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Makes 24-30 pieces
Nutrition per serving, calories per piece (based on 30): 80, total fat: 6g saturated fat: 4g, cholesterol: 0mg, sodium: 0mg, total carbohydrates: 6g, dietary fiber: 2g, sugar: 3g, protein: 0g
Joe Yonan