Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe
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.
- 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
Scale
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
- 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.
- Whisk Cocoa: Gradually whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder to the hot milk, stirring continuously to dissolve any lumps for a smooth chocolate base.
- Add Sweetener: Stir in the maple syrup or honey thoroughly to balance the bitterness of the cocoa with natural sweetness.
- Incorporate Spices: Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend the spices evenly throughout the drink.
- 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.
- Simmer Flavors: Allow the mixture to heat through for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently so the flavors meld perfectly without boiling.
- Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs, ready to enjoy the rich, warming beverage.
- Add Toppings: Optionally, top with whipped cream or marshmallows to add creaminess and a touch of indulgence.
- 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
