Indulge your senses with a warm cup of "Chocolate a la Espanola," a rich and velvety Spanish-style hot chocolate that’s sure to transport you straight to the charming streets of Spain with every sip! This decadent treat is not just your average hot chocolate; it boasts a luxurious texture and deep chocolate flavor that will have you craving more. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a delightful dessert, this recipe is a must-try for chocolate lovers. Ready to impress your taste buds and warm your heart? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and a small amount of the milk to create a smooth slurry, preventing lumps from forming.
- Add the remaining milk, sugar, and salt to the saucepan with the cornstarch mixture. Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the milk from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Gradually add the chopped dark chocolate, continuing to whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated into the milk mixture.
- Continue cooking and stirring, allowing the mixture to slowly thicken. The cornstarch will help create a rich, velvety texture typical of Spanish hot chocolate.
- Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the hot chocolate reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Pour the hot chocolate into serving mugs, ensuring an even distribution between two servings.
- Optional: Serve immediately with traditional Spanish churros for dipping, or top with a light dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This will give your hot chocolate a rich and intense taste.
- Whisk Constantly: While cooking, make sure to whisk continuously to prevent the milk from scorching and to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with half the amount and add more as needed.
- Thicker Consistency: If you desire an even thicker hot chocolate, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly, but be cautious as too much can alter the texture.
- Serve with Churros: For an authentic Spanish experience, serve your hot chocolate with churros for dipping. The combination is heavenly!
- Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange zest for an extra layer of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 20mg
