Spiced hot chocolate with cinnamon, peppercorns & cardamom

Ingredients

• 6 green cardamom pods
• 1 tsp mixed peppercorns
• 6cm cinnamon stick
• 600ml whole milk
• 70gm dark chocolate chunks, chopped into small pieces
• Agave nectar or honey, to taste
• Dark rum (optional)

Method

Lightly bash the mixed peppercorns and green cardamoms in a pestle and mortar until they split. Add to a heavy bottomed saucepan along with the milk and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring regularly.

Lower the heat to a simmer and steep the spices for five minutes. Now mix in the chocolate, stirring well until it melts, then turn the heat off. If you keep cooking it, the chocolate will turn grainy.

Strain into two cups, adding agave nectar or honey to taste. For a grown-up vibe, add a little dark rum. If reheating to enjoy, add a splash of milk to loosen the drink while warming it.

Image: Rob Allison