Hot chocolate is a childhood favourite for many of us. This version is a little more gorown up and complex. I have added chili pepper and cinnamon to the mix. Ancient Aztecs brewed their beverage with vanilla and chili peppers. Today’s Mexican culture serves it with cinnamon. I am now a convert!

    Ingredients
    16 oz milk (whole is preferred, but use what you like)
    1 vanilla bean
    1  med cinnamon stick
    1 tsp ground chili  or cayenne pepper
    1 1/2 oz bittersweet or dark (at least 60%) chocolate

   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and the vanilla bean (split down the middle). Heat the milk until simmering, then add the cinnamon stick and pepper. Heat for @ 2 min, then add the chocolate. Gently stir until all the chocolate is melted. Turn off heat and let the mixture steep and settle for @ 10 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and cinnamon stick, then pour into heat proof glasses or coffee mugs. Enjoy!