A Toast to the Season
Whilst I love a drinking chocolate at any time of the year, there’s something extra special as we move into Autumn, with the falling leaves of rich orange and red hues, the darker evenings, and the feeling of wanting to curl up on the sofa with the curtains closed, holding a mug of steaming hot chocolate. Sometimes, though, I’m after a chocolate with a little less sweetness, and a hit of caffeine – which is where a mocha comes in – rich chocolate flavours, and a large shot of coffee and I am in chocolate heaven.
Mocha: A Name Anchored in History
The chocolate mocha originated from the port city of Mocha (Makha) in Yemen. Mocha has a long history as a centre for coffee trade, and the term “mocha” originally referred to a type of coffee bean from the region, known for its distinctive flavour profile with hints of chocolate and earthiness.
The coffee trade from Mocha to Europe and other parts of the world introduced the term “mocha” to coffee culture. Over time, the combination of coffee and chocolate flavours became popular, leading to the creation of the “mocha” coffee beverage that we know today. This drink typically consists of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, often topped with whipped cream.
So, while the term “mocha” originally referred to the Yemeni coffee, the chocolate mocha beverage as we know it today has evolved over the years as a delicious fusion of coffee and chocolate flavours.
Crafting the Perfect Mocha: A Personal Touch
My personal preference is using our Classic Dark Chocolate Buttons, however this really is down to what your favourite chocolate is. You melt the chocolate and simply add a shot of either freshly ground espresso, or if you don’t have a coffee making machine, a teaspoon of instant coffee will do just fine.
My go to recipe is really easy, and you can do it in the microwave with no froth, or you can whisk it in a pan on the hob and let it gently bubble to create the froth.
- 35g Classic Dark Chocolate Buttons (or milk/white – based on your preference)
- 1 Coffee shot
- 200ml milk (dairy or plant-based, as per your choice)
Heat to gently bubbling, whisking as you go, then serve and enjoy!