Medicated Chocolate Milk

Cacao is considered in some areas of the world as food of the Gods. It has been used as food, medicine, and even currency. Cacao, in its raw form, is one of the richest sources of antioxidants, protecting us against environmental, as well as internal stressors. It is packed with magnesium, iron and the ‘bliss chemical’ Anandamide, which is responsible for making us feel good inside. Cacao is bitter in taste, drying and heating. It is considered a potent stimulus on the body and mind, and it requires a strong digestive power to break it down properly. Unfortunately, most chocolate bars you find in stores contain traces of the powerful benefits and are loaded with harmful substances like corn syrup, sugar, and highly processed oils. This medicated chocolate milk has all of the good things cacao has to offer, without any of the junk.

Serves 1

Ingredients:
1 tsp high quality cacao powder
1 cup water
0.5 cup rice milk
1 tsp raw honey
A pinch of sea salt

Optional Additions:
Vata – anise, orange zest, nutmeg, black pepper, liquorice root
Pitta – saffron, cardamom, fennel seeds, Tulsi seeds, hibiscus
Kapha – cinnamon, dried red chilli, ginger powder, cloves

Preparation Method:
– Add the cacao, water, rice milk, and sea salt to a saucepan
– Choose whatever optional additions you want and add them in
– Stir everything well and let it boil over low heat for about 5 minutes
– Turn off the heat, and stir in the honey
– Strain the mixture before serving
– Serve warm

Notes:
– Cacao is most suitable for Kapha, in moderation for Pitta, and rarely for Vata
– Vata individuals can add a tsp of ghee to counteract the natural dryness of the cacao
– Pitta individuals can substitute rice milk for coconut milk to cool off the heating effect of the cacao