When I think about International Chocolate Day, I envision sipping hot chocolate that has a little kick from spices. I think of the indulgent treat of a fine chocolate being paired with a fine wine. As a result, I can highly recommend the Ricord Merlot to pair nicely with any chocolate!
Mesoamerican chocolate dates back to 450 B.C., in the present-day country of Mexico. There are two Nahuatl words for this drink: chocolatl, which means hot water, and xocoatl, which means bitter water.
Today, chocolate is enjoyed around the world. The varieties available are unlimited. Because of the demand, Cocoa is grown in over fifty countries at an average of 5 million tons each year.
Subsequently, there are many ways to celebrate chocolate. There are many traditions surrounding the use of chocolate. It can be used in baking cakes, seasoning a mole sauce and even eaten in bar form. I think my favorite variety is in bar form. Here are some ways to enjoy chocolate.
Recipes
Chocolate Chicken Mole – Not only does this dish taste good, it’s good for you too! According to the Institute of Medicine, mole sauce is an excellent source of Vitamin B, riboflavin, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and niacin
Death by Chocolate Cake – According to Delish.com, Death by Chocolate cake is layers upon layers of chocolate and the ultimate chocolate dessert. The tallest and proudest cake on the block but there’s no need to be intimidated. This cake is easy pull together and will be the greatest show (heart) stopper. Personally this is a cake I must be careful of. The temptation to over indulge is a difficult one to resist. I have never be able to resist the temptation.
Frozen Hot Chocolate – This is fast becoming a favorite at my house. Since it’s easy to make and a delight to eat. The taste of this beverage reminds me of sitting in front of a wood fire with snow falling softly outside the window. Also, I could be resting and reading a book or even reading the great grandkids a story just before bedtime.
Hot Chocolate and Variations Never drink your hot chocolate the same ever again! Another variation is a drink called an Alpine. It is made using a powdered chocolate mix using hot water and adding in a tablespoon of Peppermint Schnapp’s. As a result, the taste is a combination of the decadence of the chocolate with the coolness of the Schnapp. A delightful drink in front of the fireplace on a cold winter’s night.
