Chocolat Chaud, Hot Chocolate for cold days

Autumn in Paris is like a hot chocolate cake with ice cream, like the taste of Ramen in Tokyo. I love Paris in this beautiful season, the colors of the autumn leaves, the smell of roasted chestnuts in the streets and the atmosphere before the holidays. Autumn in Paris is like mashed potatoes with lots of butter.

This week we had some cold days (3c-12c), it feels almost like winter. Those are perfect days for Chocolat Chaud which means, hot chocolate.

Every Frenchman grows up on mom’s or grandma’s hot chocolate, and as adults these childhood memories are very sweet. Some like it thick and some prefer it thinner, some like it sweet and others prefer the bitter taste of chocolate. The place where they would drink this warm beverage and the atmosphere surrounding the moment are no less significant than the sip itself. The scenery, the decor, even the furniture can completely change the experience of the hot chocolate ceremony.

Real French hot chocolate is made from real chocolate, not different powders, but actually chocolate that is melted and cooked in milk or a combination of cream and milk. Some even prefer to add spices to their creation. Each chef has his own recipe. Here is our recipe for hot chocolate. I love drinking my chocolate in the afternoon accompanied by butter cookies.

Parisian Hot Chocolate
2 servings

Ingredients
330 grams whole milk (3%-4%)
100 grams dark chocolate, chopped (70% or more)
Spices (possible): Vanilla, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, Instant Coffee.

For serving (possible):
Marshmallows
Whipped cream

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Preparation
1. Place milk and spices (if you want) in a small saucepan.
2. Heat over medium heat, whisking frequently, until boiling.
3. Add chocolate and whisk constantly until the chocolate melts and distribute evenly into the milk. 
4. You can serve with marshmallows or whipped cream.

Have a warm winter
Sharon