Enjoy a cup of healthy cacao. Cacao beans are magnesium-rich and help maintain muscle and nerve function. They help aid digestion, manage your weight and keep you regular. They are known as a mood enhancer, while reducing the risk of coronary disease and stroke. Added ingredients such as cardamom counteract digestive problems such as bloating, gas, heartburn and constipation.
Recipe Spiced Cocoa Nibs Coffee (Serves 2):
- 1 cup of cocoa nibs
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom seeds
- 1 allspice berry
- ½ cinnamon stick, broken into chips
- ½ vanilla pod (bean), chopped
- coconut milk (optional)
Put the cocoa nibs, cardamom, allspice and cinnamon in a sauté pan and toast over low heat for about 10 minutes, until fragrant, swirling the pan to prevent the spices burning.
Grind the toasted spices with chopped vanilla in a spice grinder until the mixture resembles coffee grounds. This will make more than you need, so store tightly sealed in a jar or tin to save for another day.
Spoon seven tablespoons of the cocoa blend into a French press. Pour 2 cups of boiling water, cover with a cloth or cozy to keep warm and steep for 7-10 minutes. Press the plunger down and pour into two cups or mugs. Serve with your favorite warmed milk and sweetener.