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A mug of hot chocolate is the perfect wintertime comfort. Make this soothing drink at home with less effort than you would imagine. Many different kinds of hot chocolate, including white hot chocolate and Kahlua, have developed from the original recipe, which originated in Mexico around 500 BC. Although there are many variations, the traditional recipe that calls for milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla essence is always a hit. A variety of flavourings, whipped cream, and marshmallows are available as garnishes, so you may make it your own. Homemade hot chocolate, in contrast to the impression of store-bought expertise, is simply created with a few basic ingredients and a few easy procedures.
Follow these simple steps to prepare hot chocolate at home and elevate your winter game:
Ingredients:
3 cups milk
4 g bittersweet baking chocolate bar chopped
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup white granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Method
Chop the chocolate bar into small pieces.
Heat up milk in a sauce pot, over medium heat, until hot (do not simmer).
Use a fine strainer or a mesh sugar shaker to sift in the cocoa powder, this helps to ensure that there are no clumps in the powder.
Whisk in the cocoa powder and add chocolate, sugar, and vanilla extract. Slowly continue whisking until the chocolate melts and incorporates into milk.
When milk starts to simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook for some more minutes. Do not forget to stir slowly from time to time.
Take off the heat and serve.
For serving: Before topping off your mug with whipped cream, pour in the hot chocolate. To enhance the flavour, you can also sprinkle in a little cinnamon powder or nutmeg.
Storage: The remaining beverage can be refrigerated, covered, for up to three days after cooling. To make it even warmer, just warm it up in a pan on low heat.
Points To Remember While Picking Ingredients
Look for a high-quality cocoa powder to achieve a decadent and intense chocolate taste. For optimal outcomes, it is suggested to utilise unsweetened cocoa powder to have the ability to adjust the sweetness of your beverage.
Feel free to select from a variety of milk options like whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. Nevertheless, the fat found in whole milk adds to a creamier texture, while other types of milk offer a distinct flavour profile.
If you're looking for alternatives to granulated sugar, consider using honey or maple syrup. Be sure to customise the quantity based on your taste.
For optimal results, incorporate pure vanilla extract into your hot chocolate.
Tips To Make Rich And Creamy Hot Chocolate
A excellent whisk is the way to go when mixing heated milk with other components. Make sure the chocolate melts evenly and without clumps by whisking it quickly.
Try other flavours if you like. To make your hot chocolate more flavorful, you can add fruits, spices, and herbs. A mix of peppermint, orange, lavender, star anise, bay leaf, cinnamon, chai spice, and chilli peppers can tantalise your taste senses.
If you want your hot chocolate to taste the way you want it to, invest in high-quality ingredients.
For an extra special touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream while you garnish.
