Champurrado is a warm, comforting Mexican beverage made with the smooth, velvety texture of masa (corn bread) and the flavors of rich chocolate, cinnamon, and vanilla.This thick, hot beverage, which is a variant of classic Mexican hot chocolate, is frequently consumed in cold weather or on festive occasions. The masa harina gives the drink a creamy smoothness, giving it a unique texture that sets it apart from other hot chocolate recipes. The addition of vanilla and a dash of salt improves the drink’s overall sweetness and balance, while chocolate and spices like cinnamon give it a rich, warm flavor.
Champurrado is often enjoyed during cold weather or festive occasions like Día de los Muertos or Christmas. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of milk
- 2 cups of water (optional, for thinning)
- 1/2 cup masa harina (corn flour for tamales)
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder (or 2 Mexican chocolate tablet, chopped)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- To dissolve the masa harina, mix it together with one up of cold water in a small bowl until it’s smooth. When you cook it this way, lumps won’t form.
- Get the liquid base ready: Add the cinnamon stick and the remaining 3 cups of milk (and water, if using) to a big pot. Reduce the heat to medium and bring it to a simmer. Stir from time to time.
- Add Sugar and Chocolate: After the milk has simmered, stir in the sugar and cocoa powder (or chopped Mexican chocolate tablet). Stir until all of the chocolate has dissolved and the sugar has been well combined.
- Thicken the Drink: Make sure there are no lumps in the masa mixture by whisking it into the pot slowly. Keep cooking for another five to seven minutes, stirring frequently. The thickening of the champurrado should start.
- After the mixture has thickened to your preferred consistency, turn off the heat and mix in the vanilla extract and a dash of salt.
- Transfer the champurrado into mugs and serve hot, possibly accompanied by churros or pan de muerto (bread of the dead).
You May Also Love: Spaghetti Squash with Paleo Meat Sauce Recipe
