Ingredients

1 teaspoon cornstarch

　　2 pinches of salt

　　2 cups half-and-half or 1 cup whole milk plus 1 cup heavy cream

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

　　2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

　　1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

　　

Step 1

Whisk together the cornstarch and salt, and whisk in the milk and cream until cornstarch is dissolved.

　　

Step 2

Bring the mixture just to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly, then reduce the heat and slowly simmer it, whisking frequently, 1 minute.

　　

Step 3

Remove the pan 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.

　　

Step 4

Whisk in the cocoa and the vanilla, and if necessary, reheat it over medium-low heat until hot.