I think people have trouble distinguishing between hot chocolate from a mix and the real kind: warm milk whisked with melted chocolate chips until rich and silky. I also think people forget (or maybe even never knew) how quickly real hot chocolate comes together. Here, a few versions that will take you around the world one mug at a time.
TOTAL TIME 15 MIN / Serves 4
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and salt and bring just to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat and add the chocolate. Let stand for 2 minutes, then add the vanilla and stir until smooth. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve with whipped cream or marshmallows, topped with grated chocolate.
TOTAL TIME 15 MIN / Serves 4
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and salt. Bring just to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat and add the chocolate. Let stand for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and serve.
TOTAL TIME 15 MIN / Serves 4
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt and bring just to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat and add the chocolate. Let stand for 2 minutes, then add the vanilla and stir until smooth. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and serve.