There is something nostalgic about drinking a cup of hot cocoa during the holidays.
Luckily, my taste buds aren't what they used to be, and the packaged hot cocoa mixes that used to do the trick as a child, I now find too sweet and void of any real chocolatey flavor. Worst of all they spike your blood sugar and provide zero nutritional value.
Inspired by one of my favorite restaurants, The Good Fork's, Mocha Tahini Latte, I decided to add a little tahini to my hot chocolate and what a difference it made!
Tahini is a source of protein and healthy fats which makes this hot cocoa blood sugar balancing. Tahini is rich in minerals such as phosphorus, lecithin, magnesium, potassium, iron and one of the best sources of calcium out there.
It's also a good source of Methionine, which aids in liver detoxification, high in vitamin E and vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B5. Tahini helps promote healthy cell growth, prevent anemia and helps to maintain healthy skin and muscle tone.
Lastly, it's easy for your body to digest because of it's high alkaline mineral content, which assists in weight loss.
This recipe is rich, creamy and nutrient dense. Make it any night of the week as an after dinner/ by the fire (or Christmas tree) treat!
RECIPE:
Serves 2
2 cups almond milk or other non-dairy milk
2 tbsp organic cocoa powder
6 dates or 1-2 tbsp maple syrup to taste
1 tbsp tahini butter
pinch of salt
Warm milk over medium heat until it lightly simmers. Then add to a blender with remaining ingredients. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired. Serve warm. You may wish to return mixture to stove-top to heat further if needed.
Enjoy
xoxoxo
