Homemade chocolate

Homemade chocolate - a classic treat that is easy to make and evokes memories of childhood and family moments when the aroma of freshly made chocolate filled the house. This homemade chocolate recipe is not only a quick dessert but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to our days. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, this recipe will help you achieve a perfect result, full of flavor and texture.

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 3-4 hours
Number of servings: 15-20

Ingredients:
- 800-900 g sugar
- 250 ml water
- 50 g good quality cocoa powder
- 1 package (200 g) margarine
- 500 g milk powder
- A plate of chopped nuts or hazelnuts (about 200 g)

Useful:
- A pot for boiling
- A whisk or wooden spatula
- A tray (preferably 20x30 cm)
- Plastic wrap or damp cellophane

Step by step:

1. Preparing the syrup: Start by adding the sugar and water to a large pot. Place the pot over low heat and stir constantly with a wooden spatula until the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup begins to boil. It is important not to increase the temperature, as you want to achieve a uniform syrup without sugar crystals. Here you can observe the magic of transforming sugar into a delicious syrup.

2. Adding cocoa and milk: Once the syrup has started to boil, gradually add the sifted cocoa, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then, add the milk powder in small portions, mixing well after each addition. This is the moment when the chocolate begins to take on a creamy consistency and the flavors intensify.

3. Incorporating the margarine: Once all the ingredients are well mixed, remove the pot from the heat and add the margarine cut into cubes. Stir well until the margarine completely melts and integrates into the mixture. Here you can feel how the rich aroma of chocolate becomes increasingly intense.

4. Adding the nuts: After the margarine is integrated, it's time to add the chopped nuts or hazelnuts. They not only add a crunchy texture to the chocolate but also a wonderful flavor. Mix well to ensure that the nuts are evenly distributed.

5. Preparing the mold: Grease a tray with margarine and then line it with damp cellophane. This will make it easier to remove the chocolate from the tray after it has set. Pour the chocolate mixture into the tray, leveling the surface with a spatula.

6. Cooling: Cover the tray with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or until the chocolate has completely set. Here you can have a moment of indulgence, smelling the aroma of chocolate wafting through the fridge.

Useful tips:
- Choosing ingredients: Use good quality cocoa to achieve a chocolate with an intense flavor. Also, margarine can be replaced with butter for a richer taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds. For a more exotic flavor, add a splash of vanilla essence or a little rum to the mixture.
- Serving: Cut the chocolate into square pieces and serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream or a glass of warm milk. It’s a delicious combination that will delight any chocolate lover.

Nutritional information:
This homemade chocolate recipe, in 50 g servings, has approximately 250 calories each, with a rich content of sugars and healthy fats due to the nuts. It’s important to consume in moderation, but it will provide a healthy portion of energy and good mood.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use liquid milk instead of milk powder?
Although milk powder is essential for achieving the desired texture, you can try using liquid milk, but you will need to adjust the amount of sugar and cocoa to achieve the correct consistency.

2. How can I store the chocolate?
Homemade chocolate is best stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can last a few weeks, but it’s unlikely to last that long!

3. What drinks pair well with homemade chocolate?
A cup of black coffee or a herbal tea will perfectly complement the sweetness of this chocolate. If you want something more extravagant, a bottle of sweet red wine can also be an inspired choice.

In conclusion, this homemade chocolate recipe is not only simple but also an opportunity to connect with loved ones through cooking. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the process, and the result will surely meet your expectations. So, gather your ingredients and let’s embark on the delicious world of homemade chocolate!