Hot chocolate is a familiar drink on chilly days, bringing a comfortable and warm feeling. However, pre-mixed or sold out hot chocolates often contain a lot of sugar, fat and calories, if used regularly, it can negatively affect health. The good news is that you can completely make hot chocolate at home with healthier ingredients, both maintaining a rich flavor and reducing the energy burden.
Prioritize pure cocoa powder
Instead of using processed dissolved chocolate packets, start with pure unsweetened cocoa powder. Cocoa powder has a natural bitter taste, clear chocolate scent and no additives. In particular, cocoa is rich in polyphenols and flavonols, antioxidant compounds that help reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular health and improve blood circulation. This is an important foundation to create a hot chocolate cup that is good for health.
Choose appropriate sweeteners
Because unsweetened cocoa powder is bitter, you still need to add sweeteners, but you should replace white sugar with healthier options. Honey has a natural sweet taste, and also provides antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Stevia or lagano extract are sweeteners that do not contain or are very low in calories, suitable for people who need to control blood sugar. When using, small amounts should be added and gradually adjusted according to taste.
Avoid using whole milk
Whole milk helps chocolate to be hot and fatty but contains a lot of saturated fat. Instead, you can choose skim milk or 2% milk to reduce calories while still preserving the flavor of the milk. For vegetarians or lactose intolerants, almond milk and soy milk are suitable choices. Almond milk is low in calories, while soy milk is rich in protein and beneficial for the heart if used in a reasonable amount.
Carefully consider additional ingredients
After having the foundation from cocoa, milk and sweeteners, you can enhance the flavor with natural ingredients. A few drops of pure vanilla make the chocolate glass more fragrant, while a pinch of salt highlights the flavor of the cocoa. Cinnamon brings a warm aroma and can help control blood sugar.
Adding a small spoonful of coconut oil also helps the drink become smooth, or a spoonful of protein powder to increase nutritional value.
Simple home brewing method
Just heat the milk until warm, add cocoa powder, sweeteners and supplements and stir well. When the mixture blends and becomes smooth, pour into a cup and enjoy immediately.
