From what I can gather, xocolatl is made with chilis, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla, spices, and water. So I rehydrated a dried chili in hot water. When it softened, I scraped the pulp and seeds into the water and discarded the skin and stems. To the pepper-water mixture I added unsweetened cocoa powder, a splash of vanilla, a dash of cinnmon. I whisked it smooth and brought it to a boil. Then I reduced the heat and simmered for about 5 minutes until it began to thicken. I served it in thimble-sized cups...just in case. The verdict: "It's not too bad, Mom, it is bitter water. Now, can you add some sugar, please?"
photo by D For my Spice It Up! kiddos this week, I was looking for an exotic drink to serve while we learned about saffron. I found a recipe from food historian Maricel Presilla that mimicked traditional Spanish hot chocolate from the 17th century where it was served at lavish receptions called agasajos . When I teach, I don't always get to shoot photos. Thankfully, D grabbed my camera and snapped a few. Ingredients serves 14-16 1 gallon organic whole milk 3 T dried rosebuds - or 2 t rosewater 2 t saffron threads, lightly crushed 3 T ground cinnamon 3 whole tepin chiles, crushed 2 vanilla beans, split lengthwise 1 C organic granulated sugar 1 lb. bittersweet chocolate Procedure In a large soup pot that can hold a gallon plus, combine milk, dried rosebuds (or rosewater, if you are using that), saffron threads, ground cinnamon, chiles, vanilla beans, and sugar and warm over medium heat till it steams. Whisk to dissolve sugar, then lower heat an...




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