A Heartwarming Mug of Hot Cocoa

Hi there! How’s the weather at your place? And how have you been since my last post? Here, in Mauritius, it’s a rainy and windy winter and this year seems really cold. For once I get to wear my thick sweaters and those embarrassing socks knitted by mom!

One of the best things about winter:

On days like these, I will sometimes treat myself to a mug of hot chocolate and over time I figured out the perfect thick and indulging recipe. Today I’m sharing the recipe with you. It’s the same I make on Sundays for the family while we watch a movie or a show on Netflix (right now, I’m loving Lucifer).

Most of the time we’ll forget about the movie and instead use this family time to catch up while it rains heavily outside. We’ll talk about our busy week and the interesting things that happened. We’ll discuss current affairs, joke and reconnect; all of that over a heartwarming mug of hot cocoa. 

Now you might be thinking, Hanshini, isn’t that unhealthy to consume this beverage? It is chocolate!!

Chocolate is not unhealthy

Of course, everything in moderation 😉. Once in a while, a mug of hot chocolate does no harm to your body – think of it as a decadent treat to yourself. 

If like me, you are fortunate enough to share it with your family, then think how these little moments help to strengthen the bond you share, especially if you don’t get to see each other too often. A heartwarming mug of hot cocoa can make it even more special. Won’t you agree?

Health Benefits of cocoa

Besides, chocolate is rich in antioxidants. It’s best to consume dark chocolate (I’m talking about the 70% cocoa content). Cocoa has plenty of magnesium. Dark chocolate can even help in lowering blood pressure.

Ready to learn how to prepare the most heartwarming mug of hot cocoa?

When I prepare my heartwarming cup of hot cocoa, I like to use unsweetened cocoa powder and I also use dark chocolate bars with at least 70% cocoa. I will add a tiny bit of sugar and recommend you to opt for brown sugar rather than refined white sugar as a healthier choice. I also love to add cinnamon sticks which give it a distinctive flavour (try it!). When it’s cold, I love when my hot cocoa is thick and creamy. Just a few sips cheer me up and I guarantee it will to you too!

I know you’re busy (I can relate to this in my own life), and this will enable you to make family time over the weekends that extra bit special. You’ll find that moments like having a heartwarming mug of hot cocoa while sharing a good conversation can bring your family even closer.

What’s your family’s favourite hot beverage?

If you’re looking to make the perfect winter beverage, here’s my recipe for a heartwarming mug of hot cocoa. Give it a try and let me know whether you and your family like it. If you have your own twists to make your hot cocoa, please share them with the Foodwini community. I’d love to try your version too because I love to experiment. Plus, it’s great to learn from each other. 🙂 

Heartwarming Hot Cocoa Recipe

For 2 persons

Ingredients

• 2 mugs of milk 
• 25 g of Lindt Ultimate Dark chocolate or any chocolate bar of your choice
• 1 cinnamon stick 
• Brown sugar 
• 1 tablespoon of Nestle cocoa or any cocoa powder of your choice
• 1/4 teaspoon of cornflour mixed with 3 to 4 teaspoons of water. (for those who love it very thick)

Preparation

1. In a saucepan,put the milk and add the dark chocolate.
2. Keep stirring and add the cinnamon and cocoa powder.
3. Keep stirring until all the chocolate has melted and the ingredients have been well incorporated with the milk.
4. Add your sugar gradually and continue stirring.
5. Keep stirring until your hot chocolate starts to boil.  If you like your hot chocolate to be more liquid, you can switch the stove off and serve it.  But if you want a creamier consistency, pour the cornflour mixture and stir for a minute before turning off the stove.
6. To serve, use a tea strainer over your mugs before pouring.