Hot chocolate is one of the best ways to warm up when it gets cold outside, so it’s unsurprising that countries across the world have their own variations on this classic recipe. Each country’s hot chocolate recipe features a little twist that shows off the local culture and culinary taste. So the next time you’re chilly and looking for a sweet treat, check out this list from Columbia Distributing to see how other people enjoy hot chocolate across the globe.
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1. Mayan Hot Chocolate – Mexico
It makes sense to start with the country of origin for hot chocolate: Mexico. Mayans were the first culture to make a drink out of chocolate. However, it was much different than the beverage you’re familiar with today. It was served cold and brewed like a beer for celebrations. However, Mexicans later developed a hot version, adding a pinch of chili pepper to the rich chocolate for a spicy kick characteristic to the rest of their cuisine.
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2. Mumbai Hot Chocolate – India
Indian cuisine is known for its liberal use of earthy spices, and Indian hot chocolate is no different. Mumbai hot chocolate actually uses white chocolate as its base, which is then blended with ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, clove, and peppercorn. The result is a flavorful and rich cup of hot chocolate that will challenge your notion of the classic drink.
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3. Parisian Chocolat Chaud – France
Leave it to the French to create one of the most decadent cups of hot chocolate you can find in the world. The recipe calls for the highest quality of chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa. The chocolate is combined with whole milk and cream to create a thick consistency that is more comparable to melted fudge than anything else. Add some vanilla and brown sugar for even more sweetness, and you have yourself quite the indulgence.
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4. Cioccolata Calda – Italy
Italy is another European country that loves its thick hot chocolate. Their version of hot chocolate uses heavy cream and milk like the French. But unlike the French, they go an extra step by adding cornstarch to thicken the mixture even more. The result is a pudding-like consistency that is still pourable. Garnish your mug with some whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the rich sweetness as a dessert or nightcap.
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5. Colombian Hot Chocolate with Cheese – Colombia
This last type of hot chocolate is for the more adventurous eaters who are willing to try something completely new. Colombian hot chocolate features an unexpected ingredient: cheese cubes. Sweet and salty food combinations have long been entertaining our taste buds, so why not try it in your hot chocolate? Brew a steaming mug of the drink using Colombian bitter chocolate, cinnamon, cloves, and honey. Then, chop up cubes of cheese and drop them in for a melted surprise inside. The best types of cheese to use are squeaky varieties like cheese curds or mozzarella. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!
Take a Trip with Your Hot Chocolate Mug
If you’re looking for a new way to mix up the classic winter beverage, you only have to look to other countries to find an interesting twist. There are so many types of hot chocolate across the world, but this list will help get you started as you experiment in the kitchen. Check out Columbia Distributing’s large inventory of beverages that range from coffee and tea to soda and juice. For specific companies, browse our list of brands by state to see what we offer near you.