Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

Introduction

This Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink is a cozy and flavorful twist on classic hot chocolate. Infused with warming spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger, it not only tastes delicious but also offers soothing health benefits. Perfect for chilly days or a relaxing evening 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

• Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer and creamier texture.
• Adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey.
• For a vegan version, choose maple syrup over honey and dairy-free whipped cream.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick.

Storage

Store any leftover 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 to maintain a smooth texture. Avoid boiling when 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 substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, such as cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Each will slightly change the flavor and texture.

What is the benefit of adding black pepper to this drink?

Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, increasing its anti-inflammatory effects.

Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 115 reviews

A soothing and warming spiced hot cocoa drink infused with anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. This cozy beverage combines rich cocoa with aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a comforting treat that also supports wellness.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Total Time: 15 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)

Cocoa Mixture

• 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 Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until it becomes steaming but avoid bringing it to a boil, which can alter the flavor and texture.
2. Whisk Cocoa: Gradually whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder to the hot milk, stirring continuously to dissolve any lumps for a smooth chocolate base.
3. Add Sweetener: Stir in the maple syrup or honey thoroughly to balance the bitterness of the cocoa with natural sweetness.
4. Incorporate Spices: Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend the spices evenly throughout the drink.
5. Add Black Pepper: Include a pinch of ground black pepper to enhance the absorption of turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, increasing the drink’s anti-inflammatory benefits.
6. Simmer Flavors: Allow the mixture to heat through for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently so the flavors meld perfectly without boiling.
7. Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs, ready to enjoy the rich, warming beverage.
8. Add Toppings: Optionally, top with whipped cream or marshmallows to add creaminess and a touch of indulgence.
9. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot to savor the comforting and delicious blend of spices and cocoa.

Notes

• You can substitute almond milk with any other plant-based or dairy milk according to preference or dietary needs.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey depending on taste.
• The black pepper is key to unlocking turmeric’s health benefits by aiding curcumin absorption.
• For a vegan version, ensure to use maple syrup and vegan whipped cream as toppings.
• Do not boil the milk to prevent curdling or separation of spices.

Keywords: spiced hot cocoa, anti-inflammatory drink, turmeric hot chocolate, cozy winter beverage, almond milk cocoa, healthy warm drink