Cioccolata Calda (Italian Hot Chocolate)

Kristen Petrucci, owner of Buona Forchetta and her niece Giulia who is doing study abroad from Italy joined us with a traditional recipe for Italian Hot Chocolate or Cioccolate Calda.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons dark cacao powder

1 1/2 tablespoons white sugar

1 1/2 cups whole milk

2 tablespoons milk

1 tablespoon cornstarch or  1/4 cup flour

1. Mix the cocoa powder and sugar together in a small saucepan. Stir the 1 1/2 cups milk into the saucepan until the sugar has dissolved. Place over low heat; slowly bring the mixture to a low simmer.

2. Whisk 2 tablespoons of cold milk together with the cornstarch or flour in a small cup; slowly whisk the cornstarch or flour paste into the hot cocoa mixture. Keep hot cocoa simmering, stirring continually, until the hot chocolate reaches an almost pudding-like thickness, 1 to 2 minutes. *When cooking with milk over a burner stir frequently to avoid scalding.

Serve with Italian biscotti, pizzelle, or shortbread cookie. **If this is too thick or dark for your guests, add extra milk. When cool this hot chocolate is like a chocolate pudding—delizioso!

Kristin is doing an 'Eat Pray Love Yourself' Valentine retreat, February 13th & 14th... you can find more information about a giveaway on her Instagram @buonaforchettaut.

She is also teaching a gnocchi class on February 23rd.

Find more information at: buonaforchettaut.com.