Description
Silky dandelion hot chocolate offers a delightful woodland twist on classic comfort drinks. Herbalists and wellness seekers will savor this golden-hued elixir that whispers of meadow magic and nourishing warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoons (15 ml) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) roasted dandelion root (loose or in a tea bag)
Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 ml) honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) vanilla extract
Optional Spices:
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions
- Select a petite saucepan and gently heat milk over medium temperature, creating a warm liquid without allowing it to reach a rolling boil.
- Introduce roasted dandelion root into the warming milk, allowing the earthy essence to infuse deeply through slow steeping for approximately 5-8 minutes while periodically stirring to enhance flavor extraction.
- Carefully strain the liquid, removing all dandelion root particles to ensure a smooth, sediment-free beverage.
- Incorporate cocoa powder into the strained liquid, blending with selected sweetener and pure vanilla extract to create a harmonious mixture.
- Optional aromatic spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be whisked into the liquid for enhanced complexity and depth of flavor.
- Return the mixture to low heat, continuously whisking to integrate ingredients and develop a silky, homogeneous texture until the hot chocolate reaches a steamy, inviting consistency.
- Transfer the luxurious beverage into a favorite mug, allowing the rich, warming aromas to entice and comfort.
Notes
- Experiment with different milk alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk for unique flavor profiles and dietary needs.
- Adjust steeping time to control the intensity of dandelion root’s earthy taste, with shorter steeps for milder flavor and longer for robust depth.
- Use raw honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners to enhance the drink’s nutritional value and provide a cleaner, more complex sweetness.
- Consider adding warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or a pinch of cayenne to complement the dandelion’s herbal notes and boost overall complexity.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg