Advertisement
As the winter chill sets in, elevate your cosy evenings with a delightful treat – Red wine hot chocolate. This comforting beverage combines the richness of red wine with the velvety smoothness of hot chocolate, creating a winter indulgence like no other.
Here, we guide you through the steps to create the perfect blend of flavours in your red wine hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
1 cup red wine (choose a bold and fruity variety)
1 cup milk (whole milk or your preferred non-dairy alternative)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the hot chocolate base:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture continuously until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the milk is heated but not boiling.
Integrate red wine:
Once the hot chocolate base is ready, reduce the heat to low and gently pour in the red wine. Stir the mixture carefully to combine the flavours without disrupting the velvety texture of the hot chocolate.
Warm and infuse:
Allow the hot chocolate to warm through without boiling. Let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the wine to infuse with the chocolate and milk. This process enhances the harmony of flavours.
Add vanilla extract:
Stir in the vanilla extract to add a subtle layer of sweetness and depth to the red wine hot chocolate. This ingredient complements the fruity notes of the red wine.
Taste and adjust:
Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness according to your preference. Add more sugar if needed, stirring well until fully dissolved.
Strain and serve:
To achieve a smoother texture, consider straining the red wine hot chocolate before serving. This step is optional, but it ensures a velvety consistency without any cocoa particles.
Garnish and enjoy:
Pour the red wine hot chocolate into your favourite mugs. For an extra touch of decadence, top up each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. The contrasting textures and flavours make for a delightful presentation.
Pairing suggestions:
Dark chocolate works exceptionally well with red wine, so consider using a high-quality dark cocoa powder for a richer experience. Experiment with different red wine varieties to find the perfect pairing for your taste buds.