Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

Introduction

This Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink is a comforting twist on classic hot chocolate, infused with warming spices known for their health benefits. Perfect for chilly days, it combines rich cocoa with turmeric, cinnamon, and more to create a soothing and flavorful treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• Pinch of ground black pepper
• Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
2. Step 2: Whisk in the cocoa powder, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Step 3: Stir in the maple syrup or honey, mixing thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend all spices evenly.
5. Step 5: Add a pinch of ground black pepper, which aids the absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
6. Step 6: Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir to meld the flavors.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
8. Step 8: Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
9. Step 9: Serve hot and enjoy the delicious and warming flavors.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier texture, use full-fat coconut milk or add a splash of heavy cream before heating.
• Adjust the sweetener to your preference, or use a sugar substitute if desired.
• Try adding a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Use fresh grated ginger instead of ground for a more intense ginger flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover spiced hot cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling after reheating to preserve the flavors and nutrients.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, such as cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Almond milk offers a light, nutty flavor, but the recipe works well with all kinds of milk.

Why is there black pepper in this recipe?

The pinch of black pepper helps increase the absorption of curcumin, the beneficial compound found in turmeric, making the anti-inflammatory effects more effective.

Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

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This Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink is a comforting and health-boosting beverage that combines rich cocoa with warm spices like turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey and optionally topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, it’s perfect for cozying up while enjoying the benefits of anti-inflammatory ingredients.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

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Milk Base

• 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)

Spices and Flavorings

• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• Pinch of ground black pepper

Toppings (Optional)

• Whipped cream or marshmallows

Instructions

1. Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling, preparing the base for the hot cocoa.
2. Add Cocoa Powder: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps, creating a smooth chocolate flavor.
3. Sweeten the Drink: Stir in the maple syrup or honey until it is fully dissolved, adding natural sweetness to the beverage.
4. Incorporate Spices: Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to evenly blend all the warming spices.
5. Add Black Pepper: Include a pinch of ground black pepper, which enhances the absorption of curcumin from the turmeric, increasing the anti-inflammatory benefits.
6. Heat Through: Allow the mixture to warm for 2-3 minutes while stirring to meld all the flavors harmoniously without boiling.
7. Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
8. Optional Toppings: Add whipped cream or marshmallows on top if desired for added richness and sweetness.
9. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the comforting and flavorful anti-inflammatory drink.

Notes

• This recipe is easily adaptable to dairy or plant-based milk alternatives.
• Adjust sweetness according to preference, or omit sweeteners for a sugar-free version.
• The pinch of black pepper is essential to boost turmeric’s absorption.
• For a stronger spice flavor, slightly increase the ground cinnamon or ginger but avoid overpowering the cocoa.
• Store any leftovers refrigerated and reheat gently before serving.

Keywords: spiced hot cocoa, anti-inflammatory drink, turmeric hot chocolate, warm spiced beverage, vegan hot cocoa, healthy cocoa recipe, turmeric drink, cozy drink