Delicious and Creamy Chocolatada: A Peruvian Classic

Ingredients

  • 1 litre of whole milk
  • 2 cups of cocoa powder
  • 2 cups of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • Whipped cream for topping (optional)
  • Chocolate sprinkles for garnish (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Pour the milk into a large saucepan and heat over medium heat.
  2. Add the cinnamon stick to the milk and bring to a simmer.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the cocoa powder and sugar.
  4. Slowly add the cocoa and sugar mixture into the simmering milk, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
  5. Continue to cook the mixture on medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
  7. Pour the Chocolatada into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles if desired.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tools for making

  • Saucepan - A large pan used for heating the milk and simmering the mixture.
  • Whisk - Used for stirring and mixing the cocoa powder and sugar into the milk.
  • Bowl - A container used for mixing the cocoa powder and sugar together before adding to the milk.
  • Mugs - Used for serving the Chocolatada.

Recipe variations

  • Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy twist.
  • Experiment with different flavors of extract such as mint, almond, or orange.
  • Garnish with crushed nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for added texture.
  • Add a shot of espresso or a splash of coffee liqueur for a mocha flavor.
  • Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream instead of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
  • Sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra warmth and flavor.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for Chocolatada, a traditional Peruvian hot chocolate drink. This rich and creamy concoction is perfect for warming up during cold winter days or simply when you're in the mood for a comforting treat. Made with whole milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and a dash of vanilla extract, Chocolatada offers a delightful balance of sweetness and depth of flavor. The addition of a cinnamon stick during cooking infuses the drink with a subtle spiciness that elevates it from your average hot chocolate. Top it off with some whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles for a little extra indulgence. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, taking no more than 30 minutes from start to finish. So gather your ingredients and let's get cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative? Yes, you can use a non-dairy milk alternative such as almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk. However, keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the Chocolatada.
  2. Can I adjust the sweetness of the Chocolatada? Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter Chocolatada, you can increase the amount of sugar. Conversely, if you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar according to your taste.
  3. Can I add other spices or flavorings? Definitely! While the traditional recipe calls for cinnamon and vanilla, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or even add a dash of your favorite extract such as peppermint or almond for different flavor profiles.
  4. Can I make Chocolatada ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Chocolatada ahead of time, but keep in mind that it is best served fresh and hot. You can store any leftover Chocolatada in the refrigerator and reheat it when ready to serve.
  5. Can I make Chocolatada without cocoa powder? No, cocoa powder is an essential ingredient in Chocolatada. It provides the rich chocolate flavor and color to the drink. Substituting cocoa powder with other ingredients may significantly alter the taste and texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Saucepan - Needed to heat and simmer the milk.
  • Whisk - Used to mix the cocoa powder and sugar into the milk and prevent lumps.
  • Bowl - To mix together the cocoa powder and sugar before adding to the milk.
  • Mugs - For serving the Chocolatada.
  • Whipped cream dispenser - Optional, if you prefer to use homemade whipped cream.
  • Chocolate sprinkles shaker - Optional, for garnishing the Chocolatada with chocolate sprinkles.

Origin stories

Chocolatada has a special place in the hearts of Peruvians. Every Christmas, it's a beloved tradition for families, schools, and communities to hold a "Chocolatada Navideña" where they distribute cups of hot chocolatada and panettone, an Italian bread, to children. This festive event is a way of spreading joy and warmth during the holiday season, reaching even the most impoverished areas of the country. This communal sharing of chocolatada is a testament to the Peruvian spirit of generosity and unity, making this beverage much more than just a sweet treat.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.