When most people think about the word “Belgium,” they automatically think of chocolate. Now, picture a rich, warm, and smooth Belgian hot chocolate… if you know about Belgian hot chocolate, you might be salivating right now just thinking about this incredibly delicious version of hot chocolate. And we don’t blame you. Belgian hot chocolate is for the true chocolate lovers out there. Keep reading and learn all about Belgian hot chocolate and how to make it at home.
Belgian chocolate
The cacao tree is not native to Belgium, but the country has a long history of chocolate-making. It all started more than 100 years ago when Belgian chocolate makers became interested in chocolate innovation. It was the first country to invent a machine that could grind cocoa beans super fine, resulting in chocolate that tasted creamy and smooth.
The traditional Belgian chocolate grinding process involves two steps. First, cocoa beans are ground until they form a paste of consistent size (150 microns). Next, with the addition of other ingredients, the chocolate is ground even finer (to around 20 microns) for a smooth, creamier texture. Getting the chocolate to this fineness means that it is beyond the sensitivity level of the human tongue. The primary goal is to avoid any grainy taste or texture in the mouth. Belgian chocolate makers also use high-quality cocoa beans and pure cocoa butter to make their chocolates extra premium.
Belgian hot chocolate
Hot chocolate is loved throughout the world. It comes with many regional variations, including the spiced chocolate para mesa of Latin America, the very thick cioccolata calda served in Italy, and the chocolate a la taza served in Spain. The thinner, powder-based hot cocoa consumed in the United States is also popular.
The major difference between many of these variants is in the amount of chocolate and milk that is combined to achieve the desired consistency. The thicker, richer hot chocolate is also called “drinking chocolate”. Belgian hot chocolate is made using melted chocolate, characterized by less sweetness and a thicker consistency. It is made primarily using dark chocolate but also has some milk chocolate mixed in.
Belgian hot chocolate has a super smooth and creamy texture with a rich chocolate flavor, making it one of the best hot chocolates out there.
Choosing the right ingredients for Belgian hot chocolate
When making Belgian hot chocolate, it’s important to select your chocolate carefully. The most important factor is using high-quality dark chocolate. Usually, the best quality chocolate is in a bar form. If you can, try to find imported Belgian dark chocolate. This will give the most authentic flavor. The lowest cocoa percentage you should use is 53% dark chocolate. The highest is around 72% cocoa. Anything more or less will stray from the authentic Belgian flavor and texture.
To make a creamy Belgian hot chocolate, you should use a richer milk, such as half and half or cream. If you want to cut calories or for a lighter taste, use whole milk or skim milk.
Belgian Hot Chocolate Recipe
Belgian hot chocolate is the ultimate treat when you need a cup of cozy! This recipe includes real Belgian dark chocolate, milk, and a touch of cream. It’s perfect for winter days!
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 ounces of quality Belgian dark chocolate
- 3 ounces quality Belgian milk chocolate
- 1 pinch of salt
- A dash of cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
Whipped cream (optional)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Method
When making hot chocolate, it’s very important to keep one thing in mind… stir the pot frequently and quickly so that the milk doesn’t scald.
- Add 1 cup of milk, both chocolates, and salt to the pan and heat on low.
- Stir until all chocolate is melted.
- Add the remaining cup of milk.
- Heat on medium-high heat.
- Stir rapidly and do not let boil.
- Once all ingredients are combined, set aside.
For the Whipped Cream
- Chill the bowl and whisk of a stand mixer beforehand in the freezer, if possible, for at least 30 minutes prior to making the whipped cream.
- Place the heavy cream into the bowl and whisk at high speed until peaks begin to form.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla and continue to whisk until the cream has soft peaks.
- Scoop a spoonful into a mug of hot chocolate.
We hope this Belgian hot chocolate recipe will become your go-to recipe for this winter. If you try this Belgian hot chocolate, be sure to let us know what you think by leaving a comment on our social media pages! We are on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
