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Low-fat tofu adds protein and richness to the creamy chocolate mousse filling in this juicy pear dessert.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
10 oz (285g) low-fat, firm, silken tofu
1/4 cup (60mL) maple syrup
1/3 cup (35g) Dutch cocoa
1 tsp (5mL) vanilla
1 orange
3 large, ripe Red Bartlett pears
Drain the tofu and place it in the centre of a clean kitchen towel. Draw the corners of the towel together, then twist the towel around the tofu to form a ball. Squeeze as much liquid as possible from the tofu by twisting the towel. Transfer the tofu to a processor or blender and puree until absolutely smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. This will take at least 1 1/2 minutes of processing.
Grate 1 tsp (2g) of orange rind into the tofu. Squeeze and strain the juice from the orange and place 3 Tbsp (45mL) in a small bowl. Set the rest aside. Stir the maple syrup, cocoa and vanilla into the 3 Tbsp (45mL) of orange juice and mix well. Add the cocoa mixture to the tofu and blend completely. Chill this mousse, tightly covered, for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cut each pear in half lengthways. Remove core then slice each half lengthways into six wedges. Spread each pear half out in a fan shape on a dessert plate. Brush cut surfaces with reserved orange juice to prevent discolouration. Dollop mousse on plate and serve immediately.
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The information presented in the Food Guide is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of US–registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.