Normally we think of hot chocolate as “junk food,” but this healthy hot chocolate recipe packs a serious health punch.
It uses raw cacao powder, which is derived from the cacao bean. You might be wondering what the difference is between cacao powder and cocoa powder? And why is cacao a better choice? The more commonly known cocoa powder is also produced from the cacao bean, but it goes through high-temperature processing, which reduces some of its nutritional value. Cacao powder is processed at a very low temperature and retains all of its nutritional value.
Cacao is high in fibre, minerals and other nutrients including magnesium, potassium, protein, healthy fats and iron. It can also reduce inflammation, as it has a high flavonoid content and flavonoids are antioxidants known to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
You can find raw cacao powder in the natural foods aisle of all grocery stores.
Full-fat coconut milk is rich in saturated fats called medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). These can be easily and quickly converted to energy in the body. MCT fats also show some promising evidence to support weight loss, body composition and metabolism. Coconut milk is further packed full of minerals and nutrients including vitamin C, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese and copper. Lauric acid in coconut has also been shown to have antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties.
You can find canned coconut milk in the Asian food and natural food aisles at all grocery stores.
As you can see, there is no reason to feel guilty about drinking this healthy hot chocolate. And all the reasons to feel good about it!
Healthy Hot Chocolate?
Ingredients
Instructions
