28 January 2007

Celebrations or commiserations?

Is it normal to be torn between opposing sentiments? After holidaying for a week (albeit at home and apart from a couple of trips to Toronto, nowhere truly exotic), tomorrow I return to my desk.

Yes, I like what I do and have a wonderful boss, but returning to "work clothes" and a daily routine--one that has me fighting my natural urges to cocoon in my linens and blankets...

Sigh.

How best to enjoy this last vacation day? After a day in Toronto, and battling the roads and the weather, this is my choice:

Hot Chocolate for one
1 cup of rich milk (one part half-and-half to three parts milk)
a squeeze of honey (about a teaspoon's worth)
a good pinch of chilli pepper
1 35g bar of semisweet chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
as much whipped cream as you want

Heat up everything except the whipped cream, making sure the chocolate is well melted. Pour into your favourite mug. Top with whipped cream.

Do you really need anything more?

cheers!
jasmine

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9 comments:

Sara said...

mmmmm, hot chocolate with chile pepper sound amazing!

Anonymous said...

I can't think of a better way to prepare yourself for back-to-work. I know how you're feeling. I felt the same thing when I had to go back after my trip.

I wish I could have had some of that hot chocolate.

Anonymous said...

jasmine,

That looks Amazing! I'll probably try something similar in about two days. (we're supposed to have snow here in Texas... again.)

I hope you're suitably enjoying the last day of your vacation(Holiday)

emily said...

sounds intriguing . . . I've never tried the chili pepper in hot chocolate, but love mole sauce; I should give it a go. enjoy the last of the vacation.

Shaun said...

Jasmine - Sometimes I steep spices in the milk and then reheat it after an hour or so. I know this means there is no instant gratification of the chocolate kind, but it does mean being rewarded with a hot chocolate with undertones of cardamom and anise (at least these are the two I alternate with).
All the best for your return to work!

Maria of Passion Fruit & Mangos said...

Sounds really good! I think I shall have to try that, it's absolutely freezing where I am.

Lis said...

The answer to your question is.. No. I would need nothing else. =) Looks soooooooooooo damn good!

Blue Plate said...

I'm saving this recipe for when I need some cheering up. Hot chocolate is so comforting.

jasmine said...

Hello all

Sara - A couple of years ago I saw an Alton Brown episode about making your own hot chocolate mix and he added chilli peppers. Since then, I'll enjoy the occasional bit of heat with my hot chocolate.

Ivonne- Thanks--If you were here, I'd have made plenty for us:)

Jerry - Snow in Texas? That can't be right!

Emily - Welcome! I urge you to try it if you like mole.

Shaun - You are far more patient than I--and I'm sure yours tastes amazing. I suppose when I learn that virtue, I'll be better for it :)

Maria - Welcome! It will definitely warm you up.

Lis - It was quite nice...I think it's time I make another.

BP - I think you'll like it, and it will definitely cheer you up.

j