A life of piety and chastity has to call for something sensual occasionally. Yes, you can enjoy the seductive chocolate flavor and thick creaminess of this Italian hot chocolate without fearing the loss of other worldly pleasures, but this confection is sure to elicit a moan from all who partake. Drinking any of the great Italian-style hot chocolates is almost a religious experience. Over and over again, people who taste this drink for the first time say, "Oh, my God." Is that enough encouragement to give this one a try? Don't overlook the importance of the orange zest or the arrowroot. The oil from the zest gives the chocolate a fresh kick, and the arrowroot thickens the mixture.
Recipe information
Yield
Serves 2 in cappuccino cups or 4 in espresso cups
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the half-and-half with the arrowroot, whisking until smooth.
Step 2
2. Place the remaining 1/2 cup of half-and-half in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer. When the half-and-half begins to bubble around the edges, whisk in the sugar. Whisk in the arrowroot mixture until the half-and-half thickens slightly, usually less than a minute.
Step 3
3. Remove from the heat and quickly whisk in the chocolate until smooth.
Step 4
4. Pour into cups, top each with a piece of orange zest, and serve immediately.
