Savour all the delights of hot chocolate

IN OUR instant world it’s so easy to grab a tin of hot chocolate instead of making it from scratch. In fact, it’s a very easy recipe and completely delightful. This wonder drink dates back 2 000 years. Can you imagine that? It was first enjoyed for the healing properties of the cocoa beans, when it was used to treat stomach and liver diseases. It’s definitely my kind of medicine! On a serious note, a 2003 study from Cornell University found that cocoa beans contained a lot of antioxidants that may help prevent cancer and help digestion.

The Spanish add chilli powder to their hot chocolate. The French serve it in exquisite silver chocolate pots.

In Europe, they still enjoy this wonder drink in a more natural state, using real chocolate and fresh cream. Some countries drink it hot and cold, sweet or spicy. It certainly is a must have to keep the winter blues away.

Super easy recipes Nutty hot chocolate

Heat a half cup of milk, add the Nutella, stirring vigorously until it dissolves. Add the rest of the milk, heat to hot but do not boil. Pour into serving cups. Top it off with marshmallows. Traditional hot chocolate

Serves 2

4 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened) 4 tbsp hot water 2 tbsp sugar ½ tsp salt 1½ cup milk 1 cup whipping cream 1 tsp vanilla essence

Method

Mix cocoa powder, sugar and salt with hot water, mix into a smooth paste Heat milk and ½ cup of cream until hot – do not boil. Add the cocoa mixture and stir it vigorously. Whip the remaining halfa-cup of cream. Pour into serving cup and top off with fresh whipped cream. Sprinkle chocolate over the top.

If you enjoy a spicier option, add chilli powder like the Spanish do or a bit of cinnamon for a wonderful flavour.

Keep warm until next week!