ITALIAN HOT COCOA

"Italians like a dense cocoa and thicken it with cornstarch so it attains an almost pudding-like or chocolate-sauce consistency. For a thinner version, add more milk, water or half-and-half, or mix in some strong brewed coffee or espresso."

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot
1 cup water, divided use
1 cup milk
1/8 teaspoon vanilla (or 1/2 teaspoon Kahlua or Grand Marnier) (optional)
FOR GARNISH:
Ground nutmeg or cinnamon
Whipped cream or marshmallows

Stir together in medium heavy saucepan unsweetened cocoa, sugar and cornstarch or arrowroot. Stir in 1/2 cup water thoroughly and set over low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup water and milk.

Cook, stirring, over medium-low heat until the mixture is thickened and coats a spoon, about 10 minutes.

Stir in vanilla, Kahlua or Grand Marnier, if using.

Top each serving with ground nutmeg or cinnamon, whipped cream or marshmallows.

Servings: 2
Source: Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer, Marion Rombauer Becker and Ethan Becker