Before we truly say goodbye to winter I thought we should talk about HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPES. Sorry to leave it so late to deliver but I have been supping away on all sorts of hot chocolate concoctions and just couldn’t decide which recipe to share with you.

Just the mention of Hot chocolate can often send the calorie counters for cover. However, here is a recipe that is easy, healthy and has no end of health benefits.

We need to talk about Cacao powder. This mega superfood is firstly and foremost a mood elevator! Yes it contains serotonin and other neurotransmitters that are thought to be the contributors to feelings of happiness. Bring it on I say. Not to mention that cacao is rich in magnesium which is known to be the most important mineral for a healthy heart and also for brain function to bring clarity and focus. Cacao powder is high in antioxidants which help guard against cellular and tissue damage that often leads to serious illness.

I’ve spiced up my hot chocolate with some little helpers cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Not only because I like the flavour but because of the work they do.

Cinnamon is a warming stimulant, an astringent (contracts body tissues) is antiseptic and antiviral. It is traditionally used for digestive ailments particularly flatulence, irritable bowel, nausea and diarrhoea.

Cayenne is also a circulatory stimulant and cardiovascular tonic, apparently helping to reduce cholesterol and tryglycerides. Historically it was used to increase blood flow through the veins and arteries and increase warmth.

Ingredients:

SPICY HOT CHOCOLATE FOR TWO

2 cups milk (milk of your choice, I use almond milk)
2 TBS Superfoodies organic raw cacao powder
1 tsp Superfoodies organic raw lucuma powder
2 tsp Coconut sugar (can be eliminated by choice but coconut sugar is low G.I)
½ tsp Cinnamon
Pinch Cayenne pepper (seriously just a pinch)
1 tsp pure vanilla essence

Method:

Heat milk in a saucepan without boiling (this is important it affects the taste). Remove from heat and add all other ingredients, cacao powder, lucuma, cinnamon, cayenne and vanilla. Whisk together till smooth. If you have a hand held blender it’s nice to aerate the hot chocolate before serving. Pour into cups or bowls and indulge.