Drinks
Chocolat Chaud à la Belge
Ingredients
- - 500 ml Whole milk (2 cups)
- - 150 g Dark Belgian chocolate (60–70%), chopped (5 oz)
- - 50 ml Single cream (3 tbsp)
- - 15 g Caster sugar (1 tbsp)
- - 100 ml Whipped cream, for serving (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp)
Method
- Warm the milk and cream together in a saucepan over medium-low heat until just steaming, not boiling.
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, letting it sit for 1 minute to soften.
- Whisk until completely smooth and glossy.
- Return briefly to low heat, stirring, until thick and hot but not boiling. Stir in sugar to taste.
- Pour into mugs and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Introduction: Belgium's reputation for exceptional chocolate is put to full use in its hot chocolate, made rich and thick with
genuinely melted chocolate rather than powder, and traditionally served with a small pot of whipped cream on
the side.
Cultural Background: Belgium's reputation for exceptional chocolate is put to full use in its hot chocolate, made rich and thick with
genuinely melted chocolate rather than powder, and traditionally served with a small pot of whipped cream on
the side.
Tips: Use good-quality Belgian dark chocolate rather than cocoa powder for an authentically thick, rich result. Keep the heat low throughout — boiling can make the chocolate grainy.
Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of speculoos syrup for a spiced version. Dairy-free version: use a good oat milk and oat cream and a dairy-free dark chocolate.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegetarian; a dairy-free variation is included above.
Storage: Best made fresh and served immediately.
Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat, whisking, without letting it boil.
Nutrition: Per serving: approx. 320 kcal, 6g protein, 20g fat, 28g carbohydrate, 24g sugar.
FAQs:
Q: Why is my hot chocolate grainy?
A: This usually happens if the mixture boils; keep heat gentle throughout and whisk continuously.
Q: What chocolate percentage works best?
A: 60–70% dark chocolate gives the classic balance of richness without excessive sweetness.