So it’s worth preparing it at home – with real, dark chocolate, milk and a bit of spices. This version has nothing to do with soluble powders from the sachet. It is thick, aromatic and full of intense cocoa flavor. In the following paragraphs you will find a recipe for homemade hot chocolate and check why it is worth drinking it more often, especially in autumn and winter.
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Nothing warms you up on a cold day like a cup of homemade, velvety chocolate. Its preparation takes only a few minutes, and the effect delights with its intensity and creamy consistency.
Recipe for homemade hot chocolate
Ingredients:
- 100 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa),
- 1.5 cups of milk (can be plant-based – e.g. oat or almond),
- a spoon of natural cocoa,
- a spoonful of honey or maple syrup,
- a pinch of cinnamon,
- a pinch of salt,
- optional: a bit of chili or vanilla.
Preparation method:
- Heat the milk in a pot without bringing it to a boil.
- Add the crushed chocolate and stir until it melts completely.
- Add cocoa, cinnamon and a pinch of salt and mix thoroughly.
- Sweeten with honey or maple syrup (if desired).
- Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes until the drink thickens slightly.
- Serve hot. You can decorate it with whipped cream, marshmallows or grated chocolate.
Although we often treat it as a dessert, hot chocolate can also be a health ally. Cocoa beans contain polyphenols, i.e. strong antioxidants they support the heart, improve circulation and can lower blood pressure. It is also a natural source of magnesium supports the nervous system, relieves stress and has a positive effect on memory and concentration.
It is not without reason that it is said that chocolate improves your mood – contains theobromine and tryptophan, which stimulate the production of serotonin, the “happiness hormone”. On cold days, it acts as a natural antidepressant – it warms you up, relaxes you and provides pleasure without guilt if you prepare it with high-quality ingredients.
Why should we drink hot chocolate, especially in autumn and winter (especially after long walks or a stressful day)? A cup of this drink is a simple way to take care of yourself and improve your well-being from the inside.
Classic hot chocolate is just the beginning of your culinary adventure. This drink gives you a lot of scope for experimenting with both taste and smell. If you like deep, spicy aromas, add a pinch of cardamom, ginger or chili to it.
Those who love sweets will love this version with orange or vanilla. Just a few drops of extract or a bit of grated peel are enough to give the drink a festive character. On the other hand sea salt or caramel they add an elegant dryness to the chocolate and make it the perfect after-dinner dessert.
You can also try this version on cold evenings with coconut milk and cinnamoninspired by the flavors of Asia. Regardless of which one you choose, one thing is certain – homemade hot chocolate is never boring and can improve your mood even on the cloudiest day.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
