This cup is a small ceremony: a simple of cacao steeped in milk, whisked with a wort—cinnamon. Add a whisper of chile if you like. No myths, just warmth.
Ingredients (serves 4)
3 cups whole milk (or oat/almond milk)
1 cup water
3 Tbsp cacao powder or 2 oz chopped Mexican chocolate
3 Tbsp sugar or piloncillo (to taste)
1 cinnamon stick (or ¾ tsp ground canela)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: pinch ground chile (ancho or cayenne)
Optional tool: molinillo or whisk
Method
Warm & steep: Simmer water, milk, cinnamon, and salt 5 minutes; cover 5 more to steep.
Whisk in cacao & sweeten: Add cacao (or chocolate), sugar, and vanilla; whisk until glossy and steaming (do not boil).
Finish: Add a tiny pinch of chile if desired. Froth with a molinillo or whisk. Serve hot.
Simples & Worts Notes
Simple: A cinnamon-milk steep is a true simple—one plant, one purpose (aroma).
Wort: Cinnamon as a kitchen wort—flavor first, lore second.
Variations
Vegan: Use oat milk + 1 tsp coconut oil for body.
Spiced nightcap: Add a dash of espresso or orange peel while steeping; remove peel before serving.
— Until next time...
I am...
Phil Wilson...
And, here’s to living an Herbal Lifestyle With You!