Holding unparalleled significance especially for winters, hot chocolate is not just a drink, it is an elixir. Velvety smooth, chocolatey in taste and often inducing warmth thanks to the addition of mild spices, hot chocolate is the ultimate drink you can curl up with under a blanket when winter’s cold winds hit. Whether you spike it with a bit of brandy or whisky or not, whether you like it with marshmallows or just with some whipped cream on top, hot chocolate is a winter delicacy that everyone should indulge in at least once.
What makes hot chocolate such a winter favourite though is not just its taste. It is also the fact that with its aroma, warmth and flavours, hot chocolate does the most important thing in the world—adding plenty of soul-soothing and health-boosting elements. Yes, it is thanks to the blend of milk, cocoa, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg as well as the fact that warming all of these up together is great for the immune system, throat, lungs and the body’s temperature. So, there is no reason to skip hot chocolate this winter. Instead, it is ritually and traditionally a must-have that you absolutely need to add to your diet.
The best part is that all the basic ingredients for hot chocolate are now easily available around the world. The only obstacle you might face is thinking of the best, foolproof method of whipping it up. If that is really the only problem that’s coming in between you and the best hot chocolate experience at home, then here are a few tips that will come in handy. Try these, and you will have perfect hot chocolate every time!
Video Credit: YouTube/Joshua Weissman
1. Pick Quality Cocoa
Yes, the market is flooded with plenty of cocoa varieties, but to make the best hot chocolate, you need to pick the best cocoa. Make sure you only opt for high-quality cocoa powder that has a rich flavour profile. If you are melting chocolate bars to make your hot chocolate, then ensure that you get those that are at least 70 percent or above cocoa content. This will ensure that your hot chocolate is decadent and delicious.
2. Milk Matters
Milk is the second most important ingredient used in creating the perfect hot chocolate, so you need to know how its varieties can impact flavour and textures. Use whole milk or full fat milk for the creamiest and richest taste of hot chocolate. If you like hot chocolate to be thicker, then add some heavy cream to add to the richness and consistency. And if you are vegan or lactose-intolerant then go for dairy-free options like almond milk and coconut milk.
3. Balance The Sweetness
Milk, and yes, even plant-based milks, have a natural sweetness that adds to the taste of hot chocolate. Dark chocolate and cocoa, however, are bitter and rich. So, balancing the sweetness of hot chocolate can be tricky. The best tip here is to add it one spoon at a time, do a taste check and add more if needed. You can also add maple syrup, honey or agave at the end of the cooking process and adjust the sweetness accordingly.
4. Spices Add Flavour
Don’t underestimate the role and power of spices in hot chocolate. Cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and even counterintuitive ones like cayenne pepper can add layers of flavour and warmth to the hot chocolate. You might feel adding salt to hot chocolate makes no sense, but actually, it intensifies and balances the flavours of hot chocolate like nothing else can. So, make these additions and explore more spices too.
5. Slow And Steady Wins This Race
No matter what anyone says, the best hot chocolate can only be whipped up slowly and steadily. Never be in a hurry when making hot chocolate, because the trick to making this drink is slow but continuous whisking along with low to medium heat. If you do hurry with it, the milk can burn, the chocolate can stick to the pan and the spices can get scalded. So, cook the milk and cocoa over medium-low heat and avoid boiling anything.
Video Credit: YouTube/Hebbars Kitchen
6. Whisking Right
Before you start making hot chocolate at home, ensure that you have a good, sturdy whisk. If it is manual then make sure it has wide-gapped wires that don’t tangle, and if it is a part of a stand mixer or blender, then make sure it is thoroughly clean. Always whisk the milk and cocoa continuously in the motion of the numeral eight. Begin with a small amount of milk and the whole cocoa, then add in more hot milk.
7. Master The Texture
Hot chocolate isn’t supposed to be a thin and dull drink, so a rich, slightly thick and velvety texture is key. If you find that your basic milk, cocoa, sugar and spice blend isn’t giving the right texture, then add a dollop of whipped cream or heavy cream and mix it in properly. If you are using vegan milk, then add a bit of almond cream or cashew butter to achieve the right hot chocolate texture.
8. Customise Your Toppings
While the basic hot chocolate doesn’t have too many variations as such, you can always experiment with various flavours to make your hot chocolate unique. Peppermint extract can give it a refreshing twist, while a hint of orange zest adds a citrusy note. For an adult version, a splash of liqueur like Baileys, rum, brandy or amaretto can add depth. Add marshmallows and plenty of other exciting toppings to your hot choc too.