Champurrado Mexican Hot Chocolate Corn Drink Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Before we dive into the warmth and comfort of champurrado, let’s talk about what to enjoy this delightful drink with. Picture a chilly evening, a cozy blanket, and a steaming cup of champurrado in hand. To truly elevate the experience, consider pairing it with some traditional Mexican snacks that complement the drink beautifully.

First up, churros. These sweet, fried dough sticks coated in cinnamon sugar are like little bites of happiness. Dipping a churro into champurrado is a match made in dessert heaven. Next, we have tamales. The savory, spiced flavors of tamales contrast beautifully with the sweet and rich champurrado. Lastly, don’t overlook empanadas. The flaky pastry surrounding a sweet filling is ideal for balancing the drink's creamy, chocolatey textures.

Why This Recipe Works?

There are plenty of ways to make champurrado, but this recipe stands out. Here’s why:

1. It Balances Flavor and Texture. Champurrado combines the sweetness of chocolate, the earthiness of corn, and the warmth of spices into a smooth, creamy drink. The masa harina adds body while brilliantly absorbing flavors.

2. It Uses Simple Ingredients. You don’t need a treasure trove of elusive ingredients to create this drink. Most of what you need can be found in your pantry or local grocery store. This makes champurrado accessible to everyone.

3. It’s Versatile. Whether you enjoy it piping hot or slightly chilled, champurrado showcases its charm in any setting. You can also adjust the sweetness or spice levels to suit your personal preferences.

4. It Brings People Together. This drink isn't just about the taste—it’s about the experience. Sharing champurrado is an invitation to slow down, sip, and connect with others, making every moment more special.

How Does It Taste Like?

Your first sip of champurrado will take you on a flavor adventure. The rich, velvety chocolate envelops your taste buds, while the masa harina gives it a delightful thickness—not unlike a hot pudding. 

A hint of cinnamon offers warmth, while a touch of brown sugar adds sweetness. If you choose to include chili powder, it introduces an unexpected, delightful kick that will make your palate dance. It's a unique experience that’s both comforting and exciting.

What Sets This Recipe Apart?

Every cook has their nuances when it comes to champurrado, but my version elevates this traditional drink:

1. Quality Chocolate: Using rich, dark chocolate enhances the depth of flavor. It offers a luxurious experience that bland cocoa powder simply can’t match.
   
2. Freshly Ground Spices: Employing freshly ground cinnamon rather than pre-ground can lift the flavor profile significantly. Fresh spices release essential oils, which can transform the taste.
   
3. Perfecting the Thickness: By adjusting the masa harina’s ratio, I ensure that the champurrado isn't too runny or overly thick. Achieving that ideal consistency requires a keen eye and some practice.
   
4. Personal Touch: I like to add a hint of vanilla extract. It’s a small detail but truly adds warmth and rounds out the taste superbly.
   

The Ingredients

To make this soul-soothing drink, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar (or piloncillo if available)
  
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt (choosing this over Kosher salt ensures a smoother blend)
  
• 1/2 cup finely ground masa harina for tortillas
  
• 1 cup whole milk (or your favorite plant-based milk works too)
  
• 1 small cinnamon stick or 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground cinnamon
  
• A pinch of chili powder (optional for a subtle spicy undertone)
  
• 3 1/2 ounces rich dark chocolate, roughly chopped
  
• 3 cups filtered water, plus extra as needed (always good to have on hand)
  
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (adds warmth and depth)
  

Instructions

Ready to embark on this delicious champurrado-making journey? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the masa harina, brown sugar, and salt. This ensures everything mixes thoroughly before hitting the heat.

Step 2: Heat the Water and Cinnamon

In a saucepan over medium heat, add the water. Toss in the cinnamon stick. Allow it to simmer gently to infuse the liquid with flavor.

Step 3: Mix in the Masa Harina

Once the water reaches a gentle simmer, gradually whisk in the masa harina mixture. Keep it moving so there are no lumps.

Step 4: Bring it to a Thicken

Continue to stir gently as the mix thickens. You want it to reach a pudding-like consistency, which could take about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 5: Add Chocolate and Milk

Lower the heat and mix in the chopped dark chocolate and milk. Stir until the chocolate melts completely, giving you that lovely, creamy texture.

Step 6: Add Vanilla and Season

Finally, add in the vanilla extract and if desired, a pinch of chili powder for a little kick. Stir to combine everything.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Pour your homemade champurrado into mugs, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top, and let the coziness wash over you. Perhaps grab a churro for dipping!

Notes

Here are some handy tips for successfully creating the perfect champurrado:

• Choosing Chocolate Wisely: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor that compliments the drink.
  
• Mind the Consistency: If the drink turns out too thick, feel free to thin it with additional milk or water.
  
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar according to your taste. Start with less and add more if you find it necessary.
  
• Chili Spice: Experiment with the chili powder. Start with a tiny pinch, as a little goes a long way.
  
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  

Nutrition Information

This champurrado recipe holds a well-balanced nutritional profile. It is rich in antioxidants thanks to the dark chocolate and provides essential nutrients from the milk and masa harina. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 250
  
• Protein: 7g
  
• Carbohydrates: 35g
  
• Fat: 10g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugar: 18g
  

How Do You Store This Champurrado?

If you happen to have any leftovers (the world’s best problem!), here's how to store your champion drink:

• Let the champurrado cool completely.
  
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
  
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Remember to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving again.
  

Sides for Champurrado

Now, let’s explore some delectable side options worthy of your champurrado.

1. Churros: As mentioned earlier, these delightful sticks are a must. The sweetness of the churro fills every bite and balances the drink brilliantly.

2. Sweet Empanadas: Empanadas filled with flavored custards or fruit fillings create a harmonious pair with champurrado. The flaky pastry and sweet filling are delightful companions.

3. Pan Dulce: This rich, sweet bread, often sold in bakeries, adds a lovely texture to the experience. The soft, sugary bread is great for soaking up champurrado and complements its chocolatey base perfectly.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

No brown sugar? No problem! Here are some easy substitutes:

1. White Sugar: You can replace brown sugar with an equal amount of white sugar. It won’t be as richly flavored but will still create a sweet drink.

2. Coconut Sugar: For a healthier option, coconut sugar works well. It has a caramel-like flavor that melds beautifully with chocolate.

3. Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk can serve as a plant-based alternative to regular milk, keeping the drink creamy while adding a slight nutty flavor.

4. Cornstarch: If masa harina is unavailable, you can thicken champurrado with cornstarch mixed with a little water.

Conclusion

Champurrado is more than just a drink; it’s an experience filled with warmth and tradition. Each sip transports you to colorful markets where the chatter of vendors mingles with the sweet scent of chocolate. This isn't just a recipe; it’s a cornerstone of cultural heritage and family gatherings. Sharing it with friends or simply enjoying it on a quiet evening brings a slice of joy that transforms any moment.

I hope you enjoy making and sipping on this recipe as much as I do! There’s something invaluable about crafting recipes that not only nourish the body but also the soul. Happy cooking!

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