In the 16th century, the leader of the Aztec tribe, Montezuma II, treated the Spanish general Hernan Cortez and his team to a fragrant thick drink made from cocoa beans with the addition of vanilla and hot pepper. The Indians called it "chocolatal" (foamy water) and served cold. They were sure that this drink gives excellent health and enlightens the mind.
Ten years after this incident, a regular supply of cocoa was established in Spain. And 50 more later, after chocolate conquered the Old World, the Italian monk Benocy conducted research proving the healing properties of chocolate. Therefore, until the 19th century, the drink was used for medicinal purposes. And not in vain!
Hot chocolate not only cheers you up, but also contains gallic acid, a substance used to treat kidney disease and to stop internal bleeding. In addition, it is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids - substances that regulate enzymatic activity.
BeautyHack shares original and delicious hot chocolate recipes:
Hot chocolate with mint
Ingredients:
200 g white chocolate
1 liter of milk
2 sprigs of mint
whipped cream
Add pieces of white chocolate to boiling milk. Wait until completely dissolved and mix gently. Add mint leaves. Remove mixture from heat, pour into cups and garnish with whipped cream. Tip: if this drink option seems too high in calories, replace regular milk with almond milk.
Hot chocolate with chili
Ingredients:
1 dark chocolate bar
60 g cream (20%)
ground pepper
orange peel
Melt the chocolate in a water bath. Add cream or some milk, orange zest and 1-2 pinches of chili powder. The warming drink is ready!
Banana hot chocolate
Ingredients:
dark chocolate bar
500 ml coconut milk
1 banana
cinnamon
Bring the milk to a boil. Add the chocolate bar, stirring constantly. Cut the banana into small pieces and add to the chocolate-milk mass. Place this mixture in a blender. Whisk until foam appears. Add a pinch of cinnamon and serve.
Text: Natalia Kapitsa
