Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe
Enjoy a cozy and healthy spiced hot cocoa that harnesses the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. This soothing almond milk-based drink is lightly sweetened with maple syrup or honey and perfect for warming up on chilly days while supporting your wellbeing.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
Spiced Hot Cocoa
- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
- Pinch of ground black pepper
Toppings (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
Instructions
- Heat the milk: In a medium saucepan, warm the almond milk over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling, ensuring gentle heat to preserve the milk’s flavor.
- Add cocoa powder: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, stirring thoroughly to break up any lumps and create a smooth chocolate base.
- Sweeten the cocoa: Stir in maple syrup or honey completely to distribute sweetness evenly throughout the mixture.
- Add spices: Incorporate ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom into the saucepan. Continuously whisk to blend the aromatic spices evenly and enhance flavor complexity.
- Add black pepper: Sprinkle in a pinch of ground black pepper, which helps with the absorption of curcumin from turmeric, boosting its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Heat to meld flavors: Continue heating the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly so all the spices infuse well without burning or scorching the milk.
- Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the hot cocoa into mugs.
- Add toppings: Optionally, top with whipped cream or marshmallows for added indulgence.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the warming, spiced flavors paired with the drink’s health benefits.
Notes
- Turmeric contains curcumin, known for powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
- Black pepper enhances curcumin’s bioavailability, increasing turmeric’s health benefits.
- Cinnamon and ginger contribute additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- To make this drink vegan, use plant-based milk such as almond milk and substitute honey with maple syrup.
- Adjust sweetness by altering the quantity of maple syrup or honey to your taste preference.
Keywords: hot cocoa, anti-inflammatory, turmeric, spices, healthy drink, cozy beverage
