Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 250 g (9 oz / 1 cup) whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or powder (adjust sweetener to taste)
Solid Ingredients
- 100 g (3.5 oz / ½ cup) dark bittersweet chocolate (65-70% cocoa solids), broken into small pieces or chopped
- ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
Seasoning
- small pinch sea salt (fleur de sel)
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, gently warm the whole milk over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching, and heat until it is hot but not boiling, around 70-80°C (160-175°F).
- Add Chocolate: Remove the pan from heat and gradually add the chopped dark chocolate to the hot milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Season the Hot Chocolate: Add a small pinch of fleur de sel sea salt, ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or powder. Stir well to incorporate all flavors evenly.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the hot chocolate and adjust vanilla or sweetness as desired, remembering the chocolate’s bitterness will balance the added flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the French hot chocolate into warm cups and serve immediately while hot for the best creamy, rich experience.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate with 65-70% cocoa solids for authentic rich flavor.
- Fleur de sel adds a subtle crunch and enhances the chocolate’s depth, but normal sea salt can be used if unavailable.
- Freshly grated nutmeg adds warmth and complexity; pre-ground can be substituted but is less aromatic.
- Be careful not to boil the milk as it will alter the texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
