Herbal Hot Cocoa: A Cozy and Medicinal Treat: Brew of the Month February 2025
Skill: Expanding Herbal Blending Skills
Expand your herbal blending skills with our Herbal Hot Cocoa recipe! This cozy and medicinal treat introduces the art of creating herbal hot beverages that go beyond traditional teas. Discover how creamy blends of herbal powders can elevate your brews, providing both comfort and medicinal benefits. Master the techniques of blending herbs, adding natural sweeteners, and simmering to extract maximum benefits.
Spring is right around the corner, but with the last couple of cold days making themselves known, I thought I'd share one last cozy brew. This recipe features a blend of herbs that boost our minds and bodies, preparing us for the warm weather to come. With the rich flavors of cocoa, the immune-boosting properties of rosehips, and the adaptogenic benefits of maca root, this herbal hot cocoa will have you savoring every last drop. Let's dive into the medicinal uses of each ingredient before getting to the recipe!
The Benefits of Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. It also contains mood-enhancing compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine, making it a perfect ingredient for a comforting drink.
Energizing Properties of Maca Root
Maca root is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to stress and balance hormones. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, providing a natural energy boost and supporting overall vitality.
Immune-Boosting Benefits of Rosehips
Rosehips are the fruit of the wild rose plant and are incredibly rich in vitamin C, making them excellent for boosting the immune system. They also contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support skin health.
The Healing Power of Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a warming spice with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves digestion, making it a wonderful addition to this hot cocoa recipe.
The Importance of a Pinch of Salt
A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients and provides essential minerals like sodium and chloride, which help maintain fluid balance and support nerve function.
Natural Sweeteners: Honey or Sugar
Honey adds natural sweetness and provides antimicrobial properties, while sugar offers a quick source of energy. Choose your preferred sweetener to taste.
Ingredients for 4 cups of Cocoa
4-6 tablespoons of Cocoa Powder (the more cocoa powder used the more bitter your brew will be)
1 tablespoon of Maca Root Powder
2-3 heaping tablespoons of dried Rosehips
4 cups of your favorite Milk (I prefer oat milk for an extra creamy brew)
Pinch of Cinnamon Powder (or a Cinnamon Stick, whatever is handy)
Pinch of Salt
Honey or Sugar to taste
Procedure
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine your cocoa powder, maca root powder, cinnamon powder, and salt. Mix to combine.
Combine Powders and Milk: In a medium saucepan, add your milk and slowly whisk in the dry mixture. Mix well to fully incorporate the powders.
Add Rosehips and Cinnamon Stick: To the saucepan, add your rosehips and, if using, a cinnamon stick.
Simmer Gently: Bring the mixture to a slight simmer over low heat. Do not let it boil, as boiling can destroy some of the beneficial compounds in the herbs. Simmer gently for at least fifteen minutes to extract the vitamins and nutrients from the rosehips. Alternatively, you may bloom the rosehips in pre-boiling water and add this mixture to the saucepan. Either way, you will want to simmer for at least fifteen minutes.
Sweeten to Taste: Once you are satisfied with the extraction, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add honey or sugar to sweeten to taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Pour the hot cocoa into your favorite mug and top with another sprinkle of cinnamon and a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Sip and enjoy the cozy, medicinal benefits of this herbal hot cocoa.
This Herbal Hot Cocoa is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day while enjoying the health benefits of these amazing ingredients. Whether you're looking to boost your immune system, balance your energy, or simply indulge in a comforting drink, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every sip!
