Mexican hot chocolate is a delightful treat that people have enjoyed for centuries. Many folks are familiar with the classic chocolate and milk combination, but there is much more to this delicious drink! If you have never tried Mexican hot chocolate before, you are in for a real treat. Learn everything you should know about Mexican hot chocolate to help you make the perfect cup.
What Is Mexican Hot Chocolate?
Mexican hot chocolate includes various spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and ancho chili pepper. These ingredients give it a unique flavor that is sweet and slightly spicy. The chocolate used in Mexican hot chocolate is typically dark chocolate, which has a higher cocoa content than milk chocolate or white chocolate. The difference is a richer flavor and a more intense chocolate experience.
History of Mexican Chocolate
Mexican chocolate has been around for centuries. Mexican cultures once used chocolate as currency. The Aztecs believed that chocolate was a gift from the gods and would only drink it on special occasions. When the Spanish arrived in Mexico, they began to add sugar and milk to the chocolate to make it more palatable. This is how Mexican hot chocolate came to be.
You can find recipes for Mexican hot chocolate dating back to the 1600s. It was a popular drink among the wealthy and often served on special occasions.
How To Make Mexican Hot Chocolate
Now that you know more about Mexican hot chocolate, it’s time to learn how to make it! The first step is to gather your ingredients. You will need:
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 ounces of dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground ancho chili pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves
Once you have all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Begin by heating the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the milk is hot, add the chocolate and sugar. Stir until the chocolate melts and the sugar dissolves. Then, add the cinnamon, ancho chili pepper, and cloves. Stir until everything is well combined. Serve hot and enjoy!
Additional Tips for Making Mexican Hot Chocolate
Here are a few additional tips to help you make the perfect cup of Mexican hot chocolate:
- Use whole milk for a richer flavor.
- If you want a truly authentic experience, use Mexican chocolate. This type of chocolate has a lower sugar content and a more intense flavor.
- If you want a sweeter drink, add more sugar to taste.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the recipe to make it spicier.
Using a Molinillo
One of the best ways to make Mexican hot chocolate is with a molinillo. A molinillo is a traditional Mexican wooden whisk used to froth hot chocolate. To use a molinillo, place it in the cup of hot chocolate and rotate it between your palms. The goal is to create a whirling motion that will froth the chocolate and create a creamy, rich beverage.
If you do not have a molinillo, you can use a regular whisk or even an immersion blender to achieve similar results.
The Difference Between Mexican Hot Chocolate and Other Hot Chocolate
Now that you know everything about Mexican hot chocolate, it’s time to learn about the difference between this delicious drink and other hot chocolates. The most significant difference is in the ingredients. Mexican hot chocolate uses various spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and ancho chili pepper.
Another difference is the type of chocolate. Mexican hot chocolate consists of dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content than milk chocolate or white chocolate. Because of this, Mexican hot chocolate has a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Hot chocolate, famous in the United States, uses milk chocolate and is typically served with whipped cream and marshmallows. While this type of hot chocolate is delicious, it is not the same as Mexican hot chocolate. You can also use water instead of milk to make American hot chocolate.
If you are looking for a delicious and unique twist on your classic hot chocolate recipe, look no further than Mexican hot chocolate.
Things To Pair With Mexican Hot Chocolate
Mexican hot chocolate is delicious, and it’s even better paired with various foods. These are some of the best things to enjoy with Mexican hot chocolate.
Churros
These fried dough snacks are a classic accompaniment to hot chocolate. You might see these served at your local coffee shop, but they are also easy to make at home. Dip your churros in the hot chocolate before enjoying it for an extra-special treat.
Marshmallows
Marshmallows are another classic pairing for hot chocolate. They add a touch of sweetness and a bit of fun to the drink. You can use regular marshmallows or try making flavored marshmallows at home.
Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is a delicious way to top off a cup of hot chocolate. It’s also a great way to add a bit of richness to the drink. Top your hot chocolate with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra-special treat.
Cinnamon Sticks
Stir your hot chocolate with a cinnamon stick for extra flavor. A cinnamon stick is also a great way to garnish your drink. You can find cinnamon sticks at your local grocery store or online.
Sweet Bread or Roll
A sweet bread or roll is the perfect thing to enjoy with hot chocolate. The sweetness of the bread pairs well with the rich chocolate flavor. Try serving your hot chocolate with a slice of pumpkin bread or gingerbread.
Conclusion
Mexican hot chocolate is a delicious, unique version of the hot chocolate you already know and love. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something sweet. Hopefully, this guide has taught you everything you need to know about Mexican hot chocolate so you can easily make this tasty treat at home. Don’t forget to pair it with some of your favorite foods for the perfect snack or dessert. You will love the combination of rich chocolate and warm spices.
Verve Culture has the tools and ingredients you need to make authentic Mexican hot chocolate, from gift sets to chocolate. So, why haven’t you tried this treat yet? Enjoy a cup of Mexican hot chocolate today!
