Chocolate tea is a delightful and unique beverage that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the aromatic qualities of spices. This warm drink is perfect for cold days or cozy nights. The soothing mix of spices makes it comforting, while the chocolate gives it a delightful twist. You can enjoy it as a warm beverage or even as a dessert alternative. This recipe is simple and allows you to customize your drink according to your taste.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this chocolate tea recipe for many reasons. First, it is easy to make with just a few key ingredients. Second, it combines traditional tea and the beloved flavor of chocolate. The spices used in the recipe not only enhance the taste but also add health benefits, making it a wonderful drink for anyone to enjoy. It is warm, cozy, and rich, perfect for sharing with friends or family. Whether you want a quick pick-me-up or a relaxing drink, this chocolate tea is a great choice!
HOW TO MAKE Chocolate Tea
Making chocolate tea is straightforward and fun. It involves roasting cocoa nibs and simmering them with various spices to create a rich, flavorful beverage. The almond milk adds creaminess to the tea, while the optional sweetener allows you to adjust the taste to your preference. This drink is sure to impress everyone!
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make chocolate tea, you will need the following equipment:
- Oven
- Pot
- Small sieve
- Measuring cups
- Spoon for stirring
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cardamom seeds
- 3 cloves
- 1/2 vanilla bean
- 1 star anise
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- Sweetener of your choice (optional)
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for topping
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Roast unroasted cocoa nibs in an oven preheated to 150 C (300 F) for about 10 minutes until fragrant. If using roasted nibs, skip this step.
- In a pot, add the spices (cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, cardamom seeds, star anise, and cloves) with 2 cups of boiling water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add the roasted cocoa nibs and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in almond milk (or preferred milk) into the cocoa tea.
- Add a sweetener of your choice if desired.
- Strain the tea with a small sieve before serving to remove any grit.
HOW TO SERVE Chocolate Tea
You can serve chocolate tea in your favorite mugs or cups. Once the tea is strained, you can serve it hot. For a nice touch, sprinkle some ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom on top before serving. This will make your drink look even better and add some extra flavor. You can also serve it with a cookie or a piece of dark chocolate for a delightful snack!
STORAGE & FREEZING : Chocolate Tea
You can store chocolate tea in the refrigerator for about 2 days. Just keep it in an airtight container. When you want to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. However, it is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is not recommended because the texture may change once thawed.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This chocolate tea pairs well with various snacks. Consider serving it with cookies, pastries, or slice of cake. It also complements fruit, especially bananas or berries, for a light snack. You might enjoy it with a slice of bread with nut butter, which makes for a perfect afternoon treat.
VARIATIONS
You can easily customize this chocolate tea to suit your taste. Here are some variations to try:
- Add More Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or black pepper for an interesting twist.
- Use Different Milks: Try coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk instead of almond milk for different flavors.
- Sweeten It Differently: Instead of regular sweeteners, try honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for different sweetness levels.
- Ice it for a Summer Treat: Allow the tea to cool and then serve it over ice for a refreshing iced chocolate tea.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of cocoa nibs?
Yes, you can use cocoa powder, but it will alter the texture slightly, and you might want to adjust the simmer time to avoid clumping.
2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan if you use plant-based milk and opt for a vegan sweetener.
3. Is there a way to make it sugar-free?
You can skip the sweetener or use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
4. Can I prepare this drink in advance?
Yes, you can make it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chocolate Tea
If you want to save some time, you can prepare the spices ahead. Combine the spices in a small jar and keep them in your spice cabinet until you need them. You can also roast a batch of cocoa nibs in advance and store them in an airtight container. This way, when you are ready to make chocolate tea, the steps will be even quicker, and you can enjoy your delicious drink with ease.
Chocolate tea is simple yet indulgent. With warm spices and a rich chocolate flavor, it is a drink that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. Enjoy making and sharing this special tea!