Let us talk about some of the variations of a hot chocolate recipe. We've all heard about a Mexican hot chocolate, with cinnamon and a touch of chilli. Or what about the traditional Belgian hot chocolate; which combines melted milk and dark chocolate. Or even the Indian inspired chai hot chocolate filled with spices like cardamom and cloves. But have you heard of a South African hot chocolate?
A hot chocolate recipe to rival all others. One that combines strong coffee, sweet chocolate and the flavour of Africa.
CHOCAMOCARULA - SOUTH AFRICA'S BOOZY HOT CHOCOLATE
Chocamocarula, not the easiest word to say. However, if you understand what makes up this hot chocolate recipe it might be a little more manageable!
This hot chocolate is made from hot chocolate - the Choca part. Strong brewed coffee - the Moca part and lastly a double shot of Amarula - the Rula part of this word. All together Chocamocarula, a word you should familiarize yourself with if you're interested in experiencing a South African safari!
I've been fortunate enough to experience safari trips all over South Africa. And no matter which lodge I've visited a version of this hot chocolate is always a morning drive staple.
Now you might be thinking; two shots of a creamy liqueur at 8am might sound a little risky but holidays are all about new experiences. Plus, its 11am somewhere right?
If you haven't heard of Amarula before, it is a fruity almost caramel tasting creamy spirit that originates from South Africa made from the yellow fruit found on marula trees. A tree which grows across sub-Saharan Africa and is a favourite amongst this area's gentle giants, elephants. This is certainly the secret ingredient to making this boozy hot chocolate recipe special.
Safari trips are all about the animals as well as local indulgences. From the morning crunchies and coffee to the afternoon drives of drywors and cocktails. Amarula fits in perfectly regardless of the time of day. Whether served hot as a creamer in your morning coffee or simply poured over ice as you watch the South African sun set. It's an imperative addition to a South African safari trip.
EARLY MORNING GAME DRIVES AND COFFEE STOPS
During a recent trip to Phinda Forest Lodge I enjoyed this classic South African hot chocolate recipe daily. It was a definite upgrade since the coffee was made in a percolator heated over a tiny skottle. The hot chocolate recipe was prepared as we wandered around the open landi and chatted about the morning's sightings.
If you would like to read more about this bucket list safari trip, I've writing a post about our three days at Phinda Forest Lodge. South Africa at its Best - Phinda Private Game Reserve.
This hot chocolate recipe truly does take me back to special safari moments and who wouldn't want to take a bit of any trip home with them! In this hot chocolate recipe, I've made an iced version to carry you through all seasons, and times of day!
📖 Recipe
Chocamocarula
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Ground coffee beans
- 250 ml Boiling water
- 1 tablespoon Hot chocolate powder
- 25 ml Amarula
- ⅓ cup Ice cubes
Instructions
- Start by pouring the boiling water over the ground coffee, you can do this in a coffee press or yoU could make your coffee in a percolator according to its instructions.
- Allow the coffee to brew for at least 5 minutes.
- Add the hot chocolate powder to the brewed coffee and stir until the hot chocolate powder has dissolved.
- Add the Amarula and stir to combine, enjoy as a hot beverage or pour over ice cubes to be enjoyed like an iced coffee.
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