AMERICAN HOT CHOCOLATE

AMERICAN HOT CHOCOLATE

Serves 4.

Note: This can be partially prepared in advance by mixing together the cocoa powder, chopped chocolate and salt to be stored in an airtight container.

• 4 tbsp. sweetened cocoa powder

• 21/2 oz. bittersweet chocolate (70 to 75 percent cacao), chopped

• Large pinch kosher salt

• 4 c. whole milk

Directions

In a medium-heavy saucepan, combine the cocoa, chocolate, salt and milk. Place the mixture over medium heat, whisking gently. Once the chocolate melts and cocoa dissolves, raise the heat to medium-high; whisk more vigorously to form froth on surface. When mixture bubbles around edges and seems ready to boil, remove from heat. Do not let it boil.

Ladle into 4 small cups with some froth on each. Serve immediately.

Variation:

• For a richer version of the hot chocolate, whisk 1/2 cup chilled heavy cream with 1 teaspoon sweetened cocoa until it forms peaks. Spoon dollops of chocolate whipped cream on top of hot chocolate before serving and sprinkle with grated chocolate.

Nutrition information per serving:

Calories280Fat15 gSodium194 mg

Carbohydrates31 gSaturated fat9 gCalcium290 mg

Protein9 gCholesterol24 mgDietary fiber2 g

Diabetic exchanges per serving: 1 milk, 1 other carb, 3 fat.

Serves 20.

Note: The mulled cider base can be prepared up to two days ahead. Refrigerate in a covered container until ready to heat with the rum. Mulling spices are available at the supermarket.

• 1/4 c. mulling spices

• 1 orange, sliced horizontally

• 1 lemon, sliced horizontally

• 1/2 to 1 c. rum

• Cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Directions

Combine the mulling spices, orange and lemon, place them in a cheesecloth bag and tie the bag securely with kitchen twine. (Or use a couple of mulling spices bags and add the fruit slices to the cider).

In a large nonreactive stockpot, add the bag of spices and the cider. Bring to a boil on high heat, then reduce heat to simmer on low heat, and mull for about 45 minutes. Remove the cheesecloth bag, squeeze the essence of the spices into the cider, and discard the bag.

Serve the mulled cider warm in cups with handles, accompanied by cinnamon-stick stirrers.

Nutrition information per serving:

Calories110Fat0 gSodium6 mg

Carbohydrates24 gSaturated fat0 gCalcium19 mg

Protein0 gCholesterol0 mgDietary fiber0 g