Spiced Cocoa Rain

1. ginger roots isolated, 2. Hot Chocolate, 3. "And then she woke up." I suppose there are worse endings..., 4. Best milk froth I've ever seen!, 5. Cinnamon. Sticks., 6. MILK FROTHER 1, 7. whole nutmeg, 8. Grated nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and ground cloves, 9. Spice: Clove

Spring is gorgeous in Münster, though you must be patient through the rain to witness it's beauty. Today was such a day. Warm but very wet. The rain cut right through me. After getting home from work I was finished and am sitting down now in front of the computer with a cuppa loveliness inspired by what you see above...


My favorite hot cocoa and go to soul healing drink. The weather is just warm enough that I have my windows open, listening to the pit patting of drops hitting pavement and roofs. My twinkle lights on and a few candles lit, with Devendra Banhart playing quietly around me.  It is in these moments that I conjure up the memories of all the people I love and pull them up closely as a blanket around me. 

Curious about my concoction? I do love to share....

Be warned, there is no exact kind of science to the thing, but go intuitively with what you think your tastes will allow and I am sure you will be satisfied.

• Enough steamy hot milk or soy to fill your favorite mug (plus a little extra for some frothy goodness)
  
• Your favorite cocoa drink mix. (I love Stephens, for you Utahns, or if you get your hands on Scharffen Berger you will not be dissappointed)
  
• 1/2 tsp. or so of instant coffee, just for some earthy flavor
• At your discretion:  ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves
• Mix like mad.  If you have a milk frother top your drink off with some extra fun.  (mine was a cheap $2.00 deal and works like magic)

As a note, if you use vanilla soy be prepared for a very decadent experience.  It comes out thick and smooth.  However, I recommend using a dark chocolate cocoa mix.  The results are otherwise too sweet for my liking.

Enjoy!

Do you have a favorite soul nourishing drink?  Please share, I would love to try it.