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Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

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3.9 from 88 reviews

This delightful spiced hot cocoa combines rich cocoa with warming spices like turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and black pepper to create a comforting and healthful anti-inflammatory drink perfect for chilly days.

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
  • 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey

Spices

  • 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 for topping

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 your hot cocoa.
  2. Add Cocoa Powder: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder thoroughly to eliminate any lumps and create a smooth chocolate base.
  3. Sweeten the Drink: Stir in the maple syrup or honey evenly to add sweetness to the cocoa mixture.
  4. Incorporate Spices: Add ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom into the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend all spices evenly throughout the drink.
  5. Add Black Pepper: Add a pinch of ground black pepper, which enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric and enriches the flavor profile.
  6. Heat Through: Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes while stirring continuously to meld and intensify the flavors.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
  8. Optional Toppings: Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired for extra richness and indulgence.
  9. Enjoy: Serve hot and savor the warming, soothing, and healthful flavors of this spiced hot cocoa.

Notes

  • Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties due to its active compound, curcumin.
  • Black pepper improves the bioavailability and absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
  • Cinnamon and ginger add additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
  • This drink can be made vegan by using plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
  • Adjust the sweetness level by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste preferences.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan