Black Forest Hot Chocolate and Pre-Lent

The mug of controversy. In Germany, there’s a very practical understanding of balance and moderation. You don’t jump straight into restraint. You warm up first. Slowly. Preferably with something rich, chocolatey, and splashes of brandy that suggest mild judgment of your life choices.Which is convenient, because I’ve never really observed Lent. Not spiritually, practically, or even accidentally. The concept is enticing, though. A designated season for restraint, reflection, and voluntarily giving something up. Usually something you like. Which feels bold, considering the year has already helped itself to a few things without consulting anyone. By the time February rolls around, I’m often left staring at the metaphorical cupboard thinking, What exactly do you want from me? Flavour? Joy? Still, Lent does have better credibility than New Year’s resolutions. It’s quieter. No sudden moral panic about carbs. Simply a slow, official nudge toward moderation. But before restraint comes indulgence. That part I understand. Which brings us (smoothly, I think) to Black Forest hot chocolate. I’ve been to the Black Forest and walked under those dark trees. I've also consumed enough chocolate in quantities that suggest peace will be made with indulgent choices later. My version of hot chocolate leans fully into those memories. Chocolate and a distinct nod to the flavours most people associate with Black Forest cake (historically accurate or not). And if we’re being honest, history is flexible when dessert is involved. If we’re going to stir the mug of controversy, the Black Forest cake didn’t actually originate in the Black Forest. Credit is usually given to confectioner Josef Keller in Bonn. The regional connection comes via Schwarzwälder Kirsch (cherry brandy), and not geography. But that’s the thing about food. At some point, accuracy gives way to association. And association gives way to comfort. This hot chocolate is essentially a cake you can drink. Frankly, it's the most efficient delivery system. So if Lent is about giving things up, consider this your polite reminder to enjoy something fully beforehand and drink the cake. Decide later whether you’re ready to renounce sugar, screens, or whatever it is you’re pretending you don’t enjoy. You can find the recipe here → Black Forest Hot Chocolate No vows required. No resolutions signed in blood. Just a warm mug and a brief moment of indulgence before the season shifts. Herzliche Grüße, Eran Fulson

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Black Forest Hot Chocolate and Pre-Lent

The mug of controversy.

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