• 2 ounces (1/2 cup) finely ground (in a coffee grinder) or grated bittersweet chocolate  
• 1 cup milk (for best results, use 2 percent fat or higher)
• Pinch cinnamon
• Pinch ground allspice
• Pinch cardamom
• Cinnamon stick, for garnish
• Whipped cream , for garnish

In a saucepan, combine the chocolate and milk, add the cinnamon, allspice, and cardamom and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil 1 minute. Garnish with whipped cream a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.

Recommended ingredient: Buy quality chocolate bars, such as Callebaut and Valrhona—available at grocery stores or online at chocolatesource.com. If you don't want to grind chocolate, Chocolate Bar suggests Jacques Torres Classic Hot Chocolate mix or Wicked Hot Chocolate mix—available at Jacques Torres Chocolate in Brooklyn and Chocolate Bar, or online at www.mrchocolate.com