Cacao Tea

 

Cacao tea is by far my favorite coffee substitute. Cacao is an effective mood enhancer, an excellent antioxidant source, energy booster and comfort food all wrapped up in one. The cacao will give you a nice hit of energy without the jitters and crash that can sometimes affect coffee-lovers -- and it tastes delicious. I take my cacao tea black and unsweetened, but you can add a little bit of stevia or raw honey if you prefer. You can also make it creamy by replacing the water with almond milk.

Cacao tea.jpg

Prep time: 5 minutes; Difficulty: low

Recipe type: Beverage
Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Serves:2 cups

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
  • 2 cups water
  • Optionals:
    • pinch of ground nutmeg
    • pinch of ground cinnamon
    • 1 bay leaf
    • coconut sugar or raw honey to taste
    • almond milk to taste

Preparation

Basic Recipe

  1. In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
  2. Dissolve the cacao powder into the boiling water on the stove top.
  3. Stir for 2 minutes or more over medium high heat.
  4. If desired, add almond milk for a creamier consistency. 

Spicy Recipe

  1. In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
  2. Dissolve the cacao powder into the boiling water on the stove top.
  3. Stir for 2 minutes or more over medium high heat.
  4. Add the coconut sugar (or honey), nutmeg, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Cook for 2 more minutes to allow the spices and sugars to blend.
  5. Strain into a mug.
  6. Add almond milk for a creamier consistency. 
 
BeveragesKevin Slavin