SIDE TRIP: Haitian Hot Chocolate

This drink reminded me of the book Chocolat — it does not seem human-made, but rather like something celestial and magic. It is rich and creamy and the perfect anecdote to any troubles you might have. In fact, after just a few sips, the only trouble I could conjure was that it had taken me far too long in life to discover Haitian hot chocolate.

Haitian Hot Chocolate

2 cinnamon sticks

2 whole star anise

¼ cup unprocessed cocoa powder

1½ cups evaporated milk

½ cup granulated sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon salt

1 ounce dark chocolate

1. Place cinnamon sticks and star anise in a medium sauce pan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil. Let boil for 5 minutes.

2. Add the cocoa powder to the water and lower the heat to bring mixture to a simmer. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to incorporate chocolate.

3. Add the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring frequently. While mixture is simmering, use either a grater or serrated knife to grate chocolate.

4. Remove cinnamon sticks and star anise from the pot with a slotted spoon. Stir in the grated chocolate.

5. When the chocolate is fully melted, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and serve.