Porcini Hot Chocolate

I really only have three words for you today - make this now.

Porcini Hot Chocolate

2 Tbsp. porcini powder*
1 Tbsp. cocoa powder
2 tsp. packed brown sugar
16 oz. whole milk
whipped cream
extra cocoa powder for dusting

In a small bowl, use a spoon to combine the porcini powder, cocoa powder, and sugar. In a small pan, whisk the dry ingredients into the cold milk. Gently heat the milk over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally, until it is very warm when you stick your finger into it. Take care not to let the milk get too hot, or it will stick to the bottom of the pan. Pour the warm porcini hot chocolate into two mugs, top with freshly whipped cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder (use a tiny sieve if you have one, otherwise just do the best you can with your fingers).

*I whizzed up my wildcrafted porcini (Boletus edulis) mushrooms in an electric spice grinder. Done in this way, they end up about the same consistency as the cocoa powder and blend quite smoothly into the milk, even thickening it slightly.