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