The history of hot chocolate dates back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where the indigenous people, particularly the Aztecs and Mayans, were known to have consumed a beverage made from cacao beans. The cacao tree, native to the rainforests of Central and South America, produced pods containing cacao beans, which were fermented, roasted, and ground to create a paste. This paste could be mixed with chocolate paste, water, cornmeal and chilli peppers to make a frothy, bitter cold beverage. The Aztecs, in particular, had a similar ceremonial beverage known as “xocolātl,” which was considered a luxury and associated with divine and royal attributes. When the Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, he encountered the indigenous people’s cocoa-based beverage. Cortés brought the cacao beans back to Spain, where the drink became popular among the Spanish aristocracy. In the 17th century, the beverage spread to other European courts, and the addition of sugar became more common, sweetening the drink and making it more palatable to European tastes. By the 18th century, hot chocolate had become a popular drink in coffee houses across Europe, and various recipes and methods of preparation emerged.

During the 19th century, developments in chocolate production, such as the invention of solid chocolate and cocoa powder, made it easier for people to prepare hot chocolate at home. In the 20th century, hot chocolate continued to evolve with the introduction of instant hot chocolate mixes and the addition of marshmallows, whipped cream, and other toppings. Today, hot chocolate is enjoyed worldwide in various forms, from traditional recipes to modern adaptations, and it remains a comforting and indulgent beverage for people of all ages.

To be honest, I am very PRECISE with how I like my hot chocolate. Contrary to popular preference, I prefer my hot chocolate to be less chocolatey, but I know not many share the same preference as me. Hence, this hot chocolate recipe is perfect because you can adjust how chocolatey you want your hot chocolate to be!

BEE ROLL

TIPS & TRICKS / SUBSTITUTIONS

TIPS & TRICKS

Chocolate / Ratio

If you prefer a hot chocolate that is richer and heavier with chocolate, then you can add an additional 50 grams of chocolate (dark or milk chocolate). The additional chocolate might not seem like much, but it does go a long way. As for the ratio of the type of chocolate, it really depends on what type of chocolate you prefer. If you are a dark chocolate enthusiast and don’t really enjoy much sweetness, then opt for more or even all dark chocolate. Vice versa, if you are a milk chocolate fan, then opt for more or all milk chocolate. However, in my opinion, it is best to use both types of chocolate as you will get a very balanced and rounded hot chocolate in terms of taste. Feel free to experiment with the ratio of types of chocolate to find your preferred blend. Also, make sure to use good-quality chocolate as they make a world of a difference in the taste of the hot chocolate.

STEPS ON MAKING CREAMY HOT CHOCOLATE

In a large bowl, add the chocolates. If the chocolate you are using is a thick bar, then make sure to chop it well. If it is a thin bar of chocolate, then break it up using your hands. Set aside.

In a milk pan, heat up the milk on medium heat. The key here is to bring the milk up to heat but not to the boiling point. Keep stirring the milk occasionally to prevent a milk ‘skin’ from forming on the surface and burning at the bottom of the pan. Once you see little bubbles forming at the side of the milk pan and there is steam coming from the milk, it is hot. Immediately turn off the heat and pour the hot milk into the bowl that was set aside earlier. Let it sit for 2 minutes.

After 2 minutes, whisk it well until the chocolate is well mixed with the milk. Add the heavy cream and vanilla essence. Whisk again until well incorporated and pour it back into the milk pan, allowing it to heat for another 3 minutes on medium heat without reaching a boiling point—keep stirring.

Once it is hot, pour it into your favourite mug. Serve optionally garnished with marshmallows and chocolate shavings.

STORAGE

It is advisable not to store the hot chocolate, and rather consume it fresh.