Ten rules for the best-ever hot chocolate

If our friends down in the southern hemisphere will excuse us, we’re going to concentrate today on how to make  the ultimate winter comfort beverage – awesome hot chocolate. We’ve reviewed the possibilities, and this list from Buzz Feed Food, 10 Commandments of Awesome Hot Chocolate, strikes us as taking absolutely the right approach. The article explains the full reasoning behind the instructions, a recipe (with some intriguing variations), plus some very helpful photos that back up these commandments:

• Use solid chocolate, not cocoa powder
• The chocolate should be dark chocolate
• Use 2 ounces of chocolate for every cup of milk
• Use whole milk
• Use any sweetener you like, but not too much of it
• Heat up the milk and sugar first, then add the chocolate
• You can use cornstarch to make the chocolate extra silky-smooth (optional)
• Always add a pinch of salt
• Don’t be afraid to take it to the next level
• Last, but not least, never forget the marshmallows

And while we’re on the subject of chocolate, let’s not forget that very few people don’t appreciate a holiday gift of chocolate. If you’re looking for some suggestions, our members recommend  these favorite recipes from their cookbooks.