Mexican Champurrado 🍫☕
Champurrado is a traditional Mexican drink that combines rich chocolate flavors with a thick, warm texture thanks to masa harina. This comforting beverage is perfect for chilly mornings, festive gatherings, or as a delightful treat alongside tamales or pan dulce. Here’s how to make this classic recipe from scratch!
Ingredients
- 2 cups masa harina
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 1/2 quarts water, divided
- 2 piloncillo cones (3 ounces each)
- 2 disks (3 ounces each) Mexican chocolate
- 1 cinnamon stick (3 inches)
- 3 whole cloves
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions
1. Prepare the Masa Mixture
- Sift the masa harina, flour, and salt into a large bowl.
- Gradually stir in 3/4 cup warm water and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth ball (about 8-10 minutes).
- Weigh out 10 1/2 ounces of the masa mixture for this recipe and reserve the rest for another use.
2. Blend the Masa
- Add 2 cups of water to a blender.
- Break the masa mixture into small pieces and add it to the blender.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Base
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining 2 quarts of water, piloncillo cones, Mexican chocolate disks, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the piloncillo and chocolate.
- Once boiled, remove and discard the cinnamon stick and cloves to prevent overpowering the drink.
4. Combine Masa with Chocolate Mixture
- Slowly pour the blended masa mixture through a fine mesh strainer into the saucepan with the chocolate mixture. Straining ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to achieve the perfect consistency.
5. Add Vanilla
- Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant finish.
- Remove the champurrado from heat and let it stand for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve Warm
- Pour the champurrado into mugs and enjoy it warm.
- Pair with tamales or sweet bread for an authentic experience.
Why You’ll Love Champurrado
Champurrado’s rich and thick consistency, enhanced by the deep flavors of piloncillo, Mexican chocolate, and cinnamon, makes it a delightful and nostalgic drink. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a celebration of Mexican culinary tradition, perfect for the holidays or any cozy moment.
Pro Tips
- Piloncillo Substitute: If piloncillo is unavailable, you can substitute with dark brown sugar or molasses.
- Mexican Chocolate: Brands like Abuelita or Ibarra are ideal for this recipe, but any high-quality, spiced chocolate will work.
- Consistency: If the champurrado is too thick, add a little water or milk to adjust the texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Conclusion
Mexican Champurrado is more than just a drink; it’s a warm hug in a mug. With its luscious chocolate flavor, subtle spiced undertones, and thick, creamy texture, this traditional beverage is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heartwarming essence of Mexican cuisine. Serve it at your next holiday gathering, or make a batch for a cozy night at home. ¡Disfrúta! 🍫☕