Since my last entry focused on the book Like Water for Chocolate, I've decided to write about the inspiration for the title of the book: hot chocolate. Hot chocolate in Canada in very different than that of Mexico; for most Canadians, hot chocolate comes in a powdered mix that you make with hot water or for some, milk. In Mexico, hot chocolate or chocolate caliente is a creamy drink that is very popular. It is made with whole milk and real chocolate, preferably dark, Mexican chocolate. In the photo above, I have featured three different types of chocolate, all of which I have found to make for a very nice cup of hot chocolate.
The first brand is the Nestle Abuelita Brand which is actually a very popular brand in Mexico and is made in Mexico. Fun Fact: "Abuelita" is the Spanish word for "grandma/granny". The recipe for hot chocolate appears on the label as this chocolate is produced for the sole purpose of making hot chocolate. For all of you Fredericton people, Abuelita Hot Chocolate is available at the Scoop-and-Save!
The other two bars are Lindt brand which has several different kinds of dark chocolate available. My two favourites are the 90% Cacao and the Chili Piment Rouge. The latter has an especially nice taste as the chile gives the hot chocolate spicy hint.
Everyone has their own way of making hot chocolate and typically all you really need is your favourite chocolate and some milk, preferably whole milk to achieve the authentic creamy texture BUT if you don't want the added fat, you can still use skim milk if you wish. I make my Mexican hot chocolate with: whole milk, 1 tablet of Abuelita chocolate and sometimes 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and/or a pinch of cinnamon. If you can't find Abuelita brand and are using just regular chocolate, sometimes some chile powder gives the drink a nice taste like in this Rachel Ray recipe.
To prepare: In a medium saucepan, heat ingredients over high heat. Stir constantly with a whisk until mixture is frothy and starting to boil. You have the option of adding sugar, cinnamon or whatever you wish and then serve immediately. This should make at least four mugs of hot chocolate.
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