Basic Chocolate Ice Cream (as seen on Pennies on a Platter)

1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
8 ounces bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate (your favorite), broken into 1/2-inch pieces
2 cups heavy cream, well chilled
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Heat the whole milk until it is just bubbling around the edges (this may be done on the stovetop or in a microwave). In a blender or food processor fitted with the metal blade, pulse to process the sugar with the chocolate until the chocolate is very finely chopped. Add the hot milk, process until well blended and smooth. Transfer to a medium bowl and let the chocolate mixture cool completely. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla to taste. Chill for 30 minutes or longer.

Turn the ice cream maker on, pour chilled mixture into freezer bowl through ingredient spout and let mix until thickened, about 25 - 30  minutes.