Raw Chocolate Pudding

My brothers were infamous for eating my parents out of house and home. We went through a phase when my mom would send me to the store every night for gallons of milk and loaves of french bread. One of the favorite antics of my beloved brothers was eating an entire container of something, usually a "treat" food such as a favorite cereal (Crispix!) or frozen box of popsicles, and putting the empty box back into the cupboard, fridge, or freezer. It wasn't until my mom would be looking for something to make for dinner and realize that the cupboard was full of empty cracker boxes, the tray of bacon in the freezer was just foam and plastic wrap, and all that was left in the cereal box was the empty liner bag with some dust at the bottom.

I have three brothers, and all five of us children are very close in age. So, I was right in the thick of these antics too. I claim no involvement.

I have to say that this chocolate pudding is one of those things that, if I were sharing, I would be tempted to put the empty container back in the fridge, just so my pudding partner wouldn't know I had eaten the entire thing.

It's also a raw recipe, which I actually really enjoy. Last year at our office's pie-baking contest, my dear coworker Allison made a gluten free and raw pumpkin pie. It was quite a contrast to the still-in-plastic pumpkin pie someone else brought. I'd like to eat more raw food, but I also realize it's a lifestyle change. I would have to change my shopping style to be able to eat more raw food.

Still, this pudding is so yum. I stole a banana from my mother so I could make another batch tonight. I'll eat it, standing in the kitchen in my pj's, thinking of my brothers. One will visit tomorrow with his wife and daughter.

Raw Chocolate Pudding
No gluten, dairy, soy, nut, eggs - and very little effort

1 avocado, removed from skin and cut in chunks
1 banana, cut in chunks
1 cup rice milk
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons agave nectar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Place all of the ingredients in your blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, and then refridgerate. Eat while standing in the kitchen with the fridge door open.

You can find more deliciousness at Slightly Indulgent Mondays.