Chocolate Santafereño (Colombian-Style Hot Chocolate) Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 ounces bittersweet or dark chocolate (85% cacao)
• 1 pinch cinnamon
• 1 pinch ground cloves
• 1 (1-ounce) mozzarella cube

Directions:

1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to boil, about 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Add the dark chocolate, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir the mixture frequently, allowing the chocolate to fully melt and the milk to heat through, for about 1 to 2 minutes.
3. Pour the mixture into a mug, and drop the mozzarella cube into the hot drink.
4. Let it sit for about 1 minute or until the cheese starts to melt into the liquid.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, decadent blend of flavors!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	544
Total Fat	32g	41%
Saturated Fat	19g	94%
Cholesterol	51mg	17%
Sodium	297mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	47g	17%
Dietary Fiber	4g	15%
Total Sugars	40g
Protein	17g	34%
Vitamin C	0mg	0%
Calcium	453mg	35%
Iron	5mg	27%
Potassium	663mg	14%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Chocolate Santafereo is a delicious and indulgent beverage that hails from Colombia, particularly from the capital city of Bogot. It's not your typical hot chocolate; it's a unique blend of rich, bittersweet chocolate, warm milk, and traditional spices, served with a cube of melting mozzarella cheese. This distinctive combination makes it a beloved treat, especially in colder months when Colombians crave comfort food and drink.

Origin and History

The origins of Chocolate Santafereo are deeply rooted in Colombian culture, specifically in Bogot, where the drink is most popular. It is often associated with the Andean region, where the temperatures can get quite chilly, making a hot chocolate with cheese an ideal comfort food. Colombian hot chocolate is not just about the chocolate; its a cultural ritual that dates back to the colonial era when Spanish settlers introduced chocolate to the indigenous people. Over time, the local populations adapted the recipe, incorporating their own ingredients and customs, including the addition of cheese, which gives the drink its distinctive flavor profile.

Regional Characteristics

Chocolate Santafereo has regional variations across Colombia, but it is most famously associated with Bogot. The drink is typically prepared with a high percentage of cacao (often 85%) for a strong, slightly bitter flavor. The inclusion of spices like cinnamon and cloves adds warmth and complexity, while the cheeseoften mozzarellamelts into the hot chocolate, creating a gooey, savory contrast. In some variations, the drink may include additional flavorings, such as vanilla or even a dash of rum, making it a drink that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

What Sets It Apart

While hot chocolate is enjoyed all over the world, Chocolate Santafereo stands out due to its unique combination of ingredients. Unlike most hot chocolates, which are typically sweet and creamy, this version is made with dark, bittersweet chocolate and spiced milk, making it richer and less sugary. The key differentiator, however, is the addition of cheese. The mozzarella cube slowly melts into the hot drink, offering a delightful mix of savory and sweet in each sip. This savory touch is what truly sets Chocolate Santafereo apart from other hot chocolate recipes.

Where It's Usually Served

Chocolate Santafereo is commonly served in homes throughout Colombia, especially in Bogot. It's often enjoyed during breakfast, paired with a traditional Colombian bread called pan de bono (a cheesy bread), or arepas, another popular Colombian dish. It is also a common sight at local cafs or restaurants that specialize in traditional Colombian cuisine. During the colder months, the drink provides a perfect balance of warmth and indulgence, making it a go-to choice for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Colombian comfort food.

Interesting Facts

• The tradition of drinking hot chocolate with cheese is believed to stem from the indigenous Andean peoples who used cacao in their rituals and daily life. Over time, this evolved into the Chocolate Santafereo we know today.
• In Colombia, Chocolate Santafereo is often prepared using a special tool called a molino, a traditional wooden whisk used to froth the chocolate and make it extra creamy.
• Some people in Colombia even enjoy adding a touch of panela (unrefined sugarcane) to their hot chocolate for added sweetness, though the bittersweet version remains the most traditional.
• While mozzarella cheese is the most common cheese used in Chocolate Santafereo, other soft, mild cheeses like Queso Oaxaqueo or Swiss cheese can also be used, depending on availability and personal preference.

Chocolate Santafereo is more than just a hot drink; its a symbol of Colombian hospitality and culture. Whether you're enjoying it on a chilly morning in Bogot or making it at home, this drink provides a unique glimpse into the heart of Colombia's culinary traditions.

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