Continued from #4 Superfood: Flax, The Regulator

Cacao: The Rejuvenator

Raw cacao is one of the most nutrient-dense foods out there. It’s rich in antioxidants, iron and magnesium. In fact, many women who crave chocolate are actually needing the magnesium that’s found in chocolate – but only if it’s made from raw cacao (not Dutch- or alkali-processed), and the key mineral that gives raw chocolate its relaxation-promoting qualities. Raw cacao is also energizing because of the antioxidants and caffeine naturally present in this “Food of the Gods”. Try using raw cacao powder in your recipes that call for cocoa powder, and blend raw cacao nibs into smoothies using a high-powered blender for a delicious rich flavour.

I created these two chocolatey-good recipes you (and your kids) can enjoy, refined sugar-free and (as always), guilt-free.

How to Use It

Raw Chocolate Avocado Mousse

INGREDIENTS

1 ripe avocado, mashed

1/2 ripe banana, mashed

3 heaping TBSP raw cacao powder

1/2 tsp natural vanilla extract

3 tsp honey or stevia extract (to taste)

Fresh berries, mint leaves and/or raw cacao nibs for garnish (optional)

Blend all ingredients until completely smooth. Divide into 2 parfait glasses or dessert bowls, garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves or raw cacao nibs.

Dr. Liz’s Choco-Cherry Superfood Smoothie

This whole-food smoothie is a source of anti-inflammatory omega 3’s and is packed with anti-aging antioxidants. Its natural sweetness even makes it a healthy substitute for a dessert.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup frozen dark sweet cherries

1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

4 tbsp hemp hearts

2 tsp raw cacao nibs

1 extra tsp raw cacao nibs, set aside for garnish

1 tsp chia seed

1 tsp ground flax seed

1/2 tsp natural vanilla extract

1. Setting aside 1 tsp raw cacao nibs, blend together all other ingredients until smooth.
2. Pour into glass.
3. Top with the extra 1 tsp cacao nibs for garnish.

Makes 1 meal or 2 snack servings.

More Superfoods…