Instructions

• Gather ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 6 ounces top-quality dark or bittersweet chocolate (at least 70%), chopped finely; a tiny pinch of sea salt; 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional); whipped cream for serving (optional).
• Pour the 2 cups whole milk into a medium saucepan and place it over medium-low heat.
• Heat the milk until it is hot and steam rises and small bubbles appear around the edges—do not let it boil.
• Add the tiny pinch of sea salt and the finely chopped chocolate to the hot milk. Whisk immediately and continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
• Return the pan to a very low simmer. Whisk continuously and simmer gently for about 3 minutes to thicken the hot chocolate.
• If using, stir in 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar and whisk until fully dissolved and smooth. Remove from heat.
• Pour the hot chocolate into cups and serve with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
• (Optional) For an even thicker result, make the hot chocolate ahead of time, let it cool, then reheat gently before serving.