Ingredients:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup piloncillo (Mexican brown sugar) or regular brown sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 ounces Mexican chocolate (such as Abuelita or Ibarra), chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Dissolve the masa harina.
In a bowl, mix the masa harina with 2 cups of water until there are no lumps. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the spices.
In a saucepan, combine the cinnamon sticks and remaining 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes. This process will infuse the water with a delightful cinnamon flavor.
Step 3: Sweeten the mixture.
Add the piloncillo or brown sugar to the saucepan with the cinnamon sticks infusion. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 10 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Add the masa harina mixture.
Pour the dissolved masa harina mixture into the saucepan and whisk well to combine. Keep stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue simmering for about 5 minutes. This will thicken the champurrado to the desired consistency.
Step 5: Incorporate the chocolate.
Add the chopped Mexican chocolate to the saucepan and stir until completely melted. The chocolate will give the champurrado its distinct and rich flavor. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together harmoniously.
Step 6: Add final touches.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. These ingredients will enhance the overall taste profile of the champurrado.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy!
Ladle the champurrado into mugs or traditional Mexican clay cups. The finished champurrado should have a smooth and velvety consistency. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or whipped cream if desired. Serve hot and savor the authentic flavors of Mexican hot chocolate!
Now that you know how to make champurrado from scratch, you can easily recreate this beloved Mexican drink at home. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the warm and comforting taste of champurrado together. Buen provecho!