Hot Chocolate with Mint

Chocolate and mint are a natural combination and this hot warming drink uses them both very well.

4 cups milk
1 stick cinnamon
6 sprigs fresh mint
2 beans vanilla, split (optional)
10 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate, cut into small pieces

Garnish:
whipped cream
chocolate shavings

Heat milk to scalding in a medium saucepan.

Add cinnamon, mint, or vanilla, if desired. Let steep 10 minutes.

Remove saucepan from heat; strain, and return to saucepan.

Reheat milk; using a whisk, stir in chocolate until melted and milk is frothy.

Serve immediately with a dollop of whipped cream garnished with chocolate shavings, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.