How to make great hot chocolate

Today, many products can be found on the shelves under the name "hot chocolate". There are several ways to make hot chocolate, but since it is a good idea to know the basics to start with, this is the one we will focus on in this article.

Hot chocolate can be made using the chocolate itself or using cocoa. Both are very easy and it''s up to you which you prefer.

* Simplest way: Instant hot chocolate.

First way to make hot chocolate: using cocoa

For one cup of the drink you will need:

• 2 teaspoons of cocoa
• 1-2 teaspoons of sugar (optional)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 cup (2dl) milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• cornstarch*

*Cornstarch affects the thickness of your hot chocolate, so the more you add the thicker your hot chocolate will be. You can also use pudding instead. If you don''t want a thick hot chocolate, you can simply omit this ingredient as it doesn''t affect the taste of your hot chocolate.

There are several ways to prepare hot chocolate.

First, in a small bowl, mix together the cocoa, sugar, salt, cornstarch and about 2 teaspoons of milk. Place the pan over a medium-high heat and allow the sugar and cocoa to slowly dissolve. (You can easily substitute other sweeteners such as maple syrup, honey, agave syrup, etc. for the sugar in the hot chocolate.) Then add the rest of the milk and stir slowly. Your drink is ready to serve.

Another way to prepare hot chocolate: using chocolate

For one cup of the drink you will need:

• 50 g dark chocolate
• 1 cup (2dl) milk

Like the previous recipe, this one is very easy. The chocolate is very easy to make, but the milk is very simple. Heat the milk in a saucepan and add the chopped chocolate. Allow the chocolate to melt, stirring constantly to speed up the melting. The chocolate is ready. If you prefer, you can also add a little cocoa to this form of hot chocolate.

Suggestion for the more adventurous: You can always add different flavours to your hot chocolate to give it a little zing. You can add a touch of cinnamon, mint, chilli, ginger, maybe even pepper, depending on how adventurous you are. Rum is also a great accompaniment to hot chocolate, and of course sweet whipped cream on top. Experiment and try different flavours and we''re sure you''ll find your perfect combination.