With the colder weather here to stay, it’s time to break out some of our favourite winter traditions. And what helps warm your soul inside and out other than good old-fashioned winter food? Whether you are a fan of a hearty winter stew or something more traditional like a good old-fashioned Sunday roast, nothing quite warms up your heart and soul like a delicious hot chocolate!
Originating all that way back in 500BC the Mayans created drinking chocolate by grounding up cocoa seeds mixed with water, cornmeal, and chilli peppers (as well as other ingredients) to create a chocolate-flavoured drink… well, a much different version from the hot chocolate we know today. In the early 1500s, the chocolate drink-making tools and ingredients made their way over to Europe where the drink quickly gained popularity amongst upper-class Spain before spreading to other areas of Europe. In 1876, the popular beverage evolved. By mixing the cacao with milk, water and sugar we were able to create the chocolate bars, which we all now know and love today.
But what is it that makes hot chocolate the BEST one ever? After all, that is a rather bold claim. Is it just the right amount of chocolate? A little hidden spice like cinnamon or nutmeg? Or perhaps it is all in the correct ratio of liquid to marshmallows? Whatever your hot chocolate beliefs are, we have one recipe that is sure to satisfy your hot chocolate cravings – all thanks to the team at Somerville Woolworths.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Ingredients
1 cup milk
50 grams dark chocolate
1 tablespoon whipped cream (to serve)
1/2 tablespoon good-quality cocoa
1/2 tablespoon caster sugar
1 tablespoon of marshmallows (optional)
Method
Step 1
Heat the milk and the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Then remove the mixture from the heat.
Step 2
Meanwhile, chop the chocolate into small pieces, reserving some for garnish. Stir the chopped chocolate and cocoa into the milk until melted and smooth. Pour the mixture into glasses and top with whipped cream, reserved chocolate and marshmallows if using.
Step 3
Serve the hot chocolate and enjoy with whilst curled up with a good book, movie or loved one.
