Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until the cocoa powder and sugar have dissolved and the mixture is hot.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the hot chocolate simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool for a minute.
5. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
2 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 390
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 87mg
Sodium: 140mg
Carbohydrates: 37g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 31g
Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk or soy milk.
- You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- You can use dark chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Add a shot of espresso for a mocha twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
- Whisk the hot chocolate frequently to prevent it from burning.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the hot chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, whisking frequently until hot.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the hot chocolate in mugs with a cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Garnishes:
Cinnamon stick, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, marshmallows
Pairings:
Chocolate chip cookies, biscotti, shortbread cookies
Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit, cheese plate, charcuterie board
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the hot chocolate is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the hot chocolate is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to heat the hot chocolate to at least 165°F to ensure it is safe to consume.
Food history:
Hot chocolate has been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to the Aztecs who made a bitter drink from cacao beans. The addition of spices like cardamom and cinnamon is a nod to the traditional Mexican hot chocolate.
Flavor profiles:
Rich, chocolatey, warm, spiced
Serving suggestions:
Serve the hot chocolate as a cozy drink on a cold day or as a dessert after dinner.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Spicy, Aromatic, Comforting