HOT AND SPICY MOCHA DRINK

Last month my library book group read The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin.  I thoroughly enjoyed the book.  Each chapter began with a reflection by A. J. Fikry on a short story, his favorite genre.  I found myself reading the entire short story or the Cliff Notes before the chapter and that really enhanced my appreciation.

When I read something I really like I then look for other writings by the author and proceed to go on a binge.  Gabrielle Zevin writes both adult and young adult fiction.  I opted to start with her Anya Balanchine trilogy.  I’ve finished All These Things I’ve Done and am now being delighted with Because It Is My Blood.  When done with this I will rush into In the Age of Love and Chocolate.

The prevalent back drop in these books is chocolate.  Because It Is My Blood starts with a recipe for a spicy chocolate drink.  Using that as inspiration I have concocted a hot and spicy mocha drink which is really satisfying on these oh, so cold winter nights.

So, I recommend The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry and, based on my further readings thus far, anything/everything by this gifted young woman.  And here is my concoction that you can sip while you read.  Tonight I may take it up another notch and add a bit of rum, mmmm, yummy.

Hot and Spicy Mocha Drink

Quart espresso coffee

Quart milk (I used low fat, and it was still very rich)

4 ounce Semi-Sweet Chocolate bar

2 Cinnamon Sticks

3 Dried Chili Peppers

1 Tablespoon vanilla

½ cup sugar

Brew 1 quart of espresso coffee and set aside.  In a large sauce pan combine milk, chili peppers, cinnamon sticks, vanilla.  Heat mixture to a rolling simmer.  Simmer for 2 minutes.  Remove from the heat.  Break the chocolate bar into pieces, add to milk mixture and whisk until the chocolate is fully melted.  Add sugar to the chocolate milk mixture and whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.  Add the coffee.  Sample and adjust the heat or sweet to taste.  Pour through a strainer before serving. Makes a whole lot (2 quarts) that can be refrigerated and heated as needed.