cup of cocoa this winter
Picture this:
Cold wintry nights and a cup of cocoa between our palms - a match made in heaven, no? As hot and cold cocoa continues to command immense popularity across the globe, especially during the colder months, we celebrate the rich, humble beverage on Cocoa Day today. On why cocoa is a winter favourite, executive chef Surya Narayana says, "Hot cocoa is not just a drink; it's an experience. Its warmth combats winter's chill, and its rich, chocolatey flavour evokes comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence. Across cultures, hot cocoa has become a symbol of togetherness, whether it's paired with holiday festivities or quiet moments. Its versatility — with options to add spices, syrups, or different milk bases — ensures there's a version for everyone to love."
Adds executive chef Tushar Bhattacharya, "Cocoa has been considered a luxury since ancient times, which adds to its timeless allure. The secret to the perfect cup of cocoa depends on the flavours an individual cherishes. Experimenting with different ingredients like spices, sweeteners, or toppings, can make each cup uniquely delicious. You can elevate the drink with liqueurs and spirits such as coffee liqueurs, cream liqueurs, Cointreau (orange liqueur), mint liqueur, berry liqueur, white rum, dark rum, vodka, and Irish whiskey."
"Cocoa can be consumed frequently if you don't use much sugar or fat in it. Consuming cocoa is good for the brain and teeth, besides being a delight for the taste buds. Cocoa is also a known to be a mood-booster, which is why, along with sugar and fat in chocolate, it helps to manage mood swings and makes one feel happier," says Liza Shah, a nutritionist.
Classic flavour pairings
Peppermint - perfect for a festive vibe
Caramel - adds buttery richness and sweetness
Hazelnut - the nuttiness brings out cocoa's depth
Vanilla bean - enhances chocolate's complexity
Orange zest - a bright citrusy note for a tangy flair
Other flavours: Espresso, berry purees, mint, blood orange, hazelnut, cashews,
peanut butter, almonds, strawberry, marshmallows, and even fresh peppercorns
For a perfect cuppa, follow these steps:
Use high-quality cocoa powder or real dark chocolate for a richer flavour
Always add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness
For hot cocoa, heat the milk gently, avoid boiling it to keep it creamy
Blend the cocoa or chocolate into the milk slowly to avoid clumping
For cold cocoa, dissolve the chocolate base in a little warm milk first, then chill and blend with cold milk or ice for a smooth consistency.
Adjust sweetness to taste — less is often more.
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This article is referenced from
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/
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