This drink is a source of flavonoids, natural antioxidants, theobromine, and phenylethylamine, which act as stimulants, support the cardiovascular system, and have effects on the body similar to caffeine. Hot chocolate contains vitamins B, D, E, A, and C, as well as magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, and iron. When consumed in moderation, this beverage helps normalize blood pressure, lowers harmful cholesterol levels, prevents the development of malignant tumors, and boosts immunity against viral infections.
Until the 19th century, hot was officially used for medicinal purposes—specifically, for treating colds. Thanks to the beneficial cocoa butter in its composition and its warming properties, it soothes sore throats and improves overall well-being. Regular consumption of this drink enhances mood, helps combat stress, and provides a boost of energy. Hot chocolate is particularly beneficial during mental exertion—it increases productivity, strengthens memory, and stimulates creative thinking.
The calorie content of hot chocolate is around 77 kcal per 100 grams. When prepared at home, you can adjust its energy value to your liking. The lowest calorie version is made with milk, grated cocoa beans, and sugar (the least calories come from hot chocolate made with cocoa and sugar-free hot chocolate). In contrast, the energy value of a drink made from a whole chocolate bar can reach up to 190 kcal per 100 grams. This figure increases with the addition of extra ingredients (like honey or spices).
Ingredients: 150 g chocolate bar; 1 liter milk; 1 vanilla pod; 1 cinnamon stick; sugar to taste; nutmeg to taste.
Preparation
Cut the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds.
In a small saucepan, bring or cream with vanilla and cinnamon to a boil (but do not let it boil over), then remove the saucepan from the heat and add the broken chocolate bar.
Stir the hot mixture until all the chocolate is melted. Whip the hot chocolate until frothy, adding sugar or to taste. Serve in cups, garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Life Hack
- Unlike cocoa drinks made from cocoa powder, hot chocolate is prepared using chocolate bars or grated cocoa beans. The drink becomes thick and rich due to the high concentration of cocoa butter in chocolate bars. If you make hot chocolate with cocoa powder, you can increase its thickness by adding a bit of cornstarch dissolved in cold water and reheating it without boiling.
- Additional flavorings for the finished hot chocolate can include vanilla sugar, ginger, cardamom, red pepper, chili, or brandy. It’s customary to garnish the drink not only with whipped cream and nutmeg but also with orange zest, chocolate shavings, candied fruits, or marshmallows.
Photo: Unsplash, Pixabay
