The Finest Hot Chocolate for 2

By lorik

Ingredients

• Variation from Food 52:
• 3 oz bittersweet chocolate, broken intopieces
• 1 Tbsp sugar, or to taste
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1/3 cup heavy cream, whipped
• freshly grated chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder, for sprinkling
• 2 mugs, warmed
• Makes 6 demitasse servings
• 3 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped into small pieces
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 3/4 cup milk
• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Details

Servings 2
Adapted from food52.com

Preparation

Step 1

Put the chocolate pieces sugar, vanilla bean, and milk in a small heavy saucepan. Heat gently, stirring, until the chocolate has melted, then bring to a boil, beating constantly with a balloon whisk, until very smooth and frothy. Remove the vanilla bean.

Pour into warmed mugs, top with whipped cream and a sprinkling of grated chocolate or cocoa powder. Serve immediately

Variation:
1. Place the chocolate in a small saucepan. Pour a little of the boiling water over the chocolate and stir until the chocolate is melted.
2. Add the rest of the boiling water and the milk. Heat the mixture, whisking constantly, until it is hot but not boiling. For the best flavor and texture, avoiding exceeding 180° F.
3. Serve immediately or set aside and reheat gently before serving. Serve in demitasse glasses and, if you wish, with whipped cream.