Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe - Indian Cuisine

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Indulge in a cozy and comforting drink with this delicious Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet treat to warm you up.

History

Hot chocolate has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the drink dating back to the Mayans and Aztecs. The addition of peppermint to hot chocolate is a more modern twist, adding a refreshing and festive flavor to the classic drink.

Ingredients

1 cup of 2% milk
2 tbsp of semi-sweet chocolate chips
sugar (if desired for a sweeter taste)
2 to 3 drops of peppermint extract

How to prepare

Warm one cup of milk without boiling it. Add chocolate chips, remove from heat and stir until the chocolate melts into the milk.
Pour into a cup and add a few drops of peppermint extract. Use a milk frother to achieve a frothy texture if desired.

Variations

Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to heat the milk slowly to prevent scorching and to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. Stir constantly while melting the chocolate to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a candy cane for stirring and a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra special touch.

Cooking Techniques

Use a milk frother to create a frothy texture for an extra luxurious drink.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of milk or dairy-free alternative in place of the 2% milk. You can also use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the hot chocolate mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to stir well before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in festive mugs and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair with a plate of cookies or a slice of cake for a delicious dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Fats: 10g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of calcium and iron.

Alergens

Contains dairy and soy.

Summary

This Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a decadent treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a perfect indulgence for a special occasion.

Summary

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe, perfect for warming up on a cold day or as a special treat during the holiday season.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a cold winter evening, and I had just returned home from a long day of work. As I stepped into the cozy warmth of my kitchen, I noticed a faint, tantalizing aroma wafting through the air. Curious, I followed the scent to the stove, where a pot of rich, creamy hot chocolate was simmering gently.

My dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, had dropped by for a visit earlier that day, and she had kindly brought along a small vial of peppermint extract as a gift. As she explained to me how she liked to add a few drops of it to her hot chocolate for a refreshing twist, I couldn't help but be intrigued. I had always loved the combination of chocolate and mint, and the idea of infusing my favorite hot beverage with the cool, invigorating flavor of peppermint sounded absolutely delightful.

Mrs. Jenkins had scribbled down the recipe for me on a piece of paper, her handwriting neat and precise. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had in turn learned it from a dear friend many years ago. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique touch to it along the way.

As I read through the instructions, I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. The process was simple enough – just a few basic ingredients like milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and of course, the star of the show, peppermint extract. I gathered everything I needed and set to work, following the recipe carefully.

Once the hot chocolate was ready, I poured it into a mug and took a tentative sip. The first thing that hit me was the rich, velvety texture of the drink. It was like a warm, comforting hug in a cup. And then, as the peppermint flavor danced on my tongue, I felt a wave of pure bliss wash over me. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before – a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness, with just a hint of indulgent decadence.

From that moment on, Peppermint Hot Chocolate became a beloved staple in my kitchen. I would make it whenever the weather turned cold, or whenever I needed a little pick-me-up after a long day. It became a symbol of comfort and joy, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Mrs. Jenkins had started. Each time I make it, I think of her and the generosity she showed me that day. I think of her grandmother, and her friend before her, and all the other cooks who had lovingly prepared this drink over the years.

And as I sit by the fire with a steaming mug of Peppermint Hot Chocolate in hand, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the warm memories and cherished moments that this recipe has brought into my life. Gratitude for the simple joys of good food and good company. And gratitude for the timeless tradition of sharing and passing down recipes, keeping the flame of culinary creativity alive for generations to come.