Hot Chocolate
Chocolate is often known as a gift from the gods. The first known appearance is from the Aztecs. The name chocolate is derived from the Aztec word xocoatl, that's a bitter drink made from cacao beans. The Latin name for the tree, Theobroma cacao, means "food from the gods. Theobromine, the chemical derived from the cocoa bean is considered a stimulant with a structure similar to caffeine.
I find that the mixes found in supermarkets are too sweet for my liking. This is why I created this recipe. A mix that was not only chocolatey but thick and creamy as well. This recipe is an inspired version by J Kenji Lopez-Alt's recipe on Serious Eats. It's something that's warming and decadent. Perfect for a winter's evening.
Chocolate Mix
Ingredients
200g 100% dark chocolate, finely grated
120g Dutch processed cocoa powder
50g caster sugar
30g cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
(optional) vanilla seeds from a vanilla pod
Method
Place all ingredients in a food processor, pulse the ingredients until it is well mixed, store in a airtight container. The mix is ready for hot chocolate.
Making the chocolate
To make hot chocolate, add 2 tablespoons, (about 20 grams) of the chocolate mix to about 200mls of boiling milk.
To make iced chcocolate, combine some of boiling water to 2 tablespoons of the chocolate mix in a mug and mix until the mixture becomes a smooth liquid and stir until well dissolved. Add 200ml of cold milk and fill the glass with ice. This recipe works equally well with oat milk or soya milk.