Use any milky liquid you like, whether it's from a cow, nuts (almond milk), beans (soy milk), or grains (rice milk).

　　

Ingredients

1 cup milk or any combination of milk, half-and-half, or cream

　　Pinch of salt

　　2 ounces bittersweet (60% cacao) or semisweet chocolate, broken into small pieces or chopped

　　1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

　　1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)

　　

Step 1

Bring the liquid almost to a simmer with the salt over medium heat, then remove it from the heat and add the chocolate. Let it rest for 1 minute, then whisk the mixture until chocolate is melted and liquid is smooth. Stir in vanilla and taste it. If you want a stronger, deeper chocolate flavor, whisk in the cocoa. If necessary, reheat the liquid over medium-low heat, stirring.

　　

Step 2

If you like it frothy, or the cocoa powder didn't blend in smoothly, blend it in the blender.

　　

Step 3

This recipe multiplies easily. When you get up to a quart of milk, use 1/4 teaspoon salt.