Hot Spiced Cacao

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• pinch nutmeg
• tiny pinch Himalayan pink salt
• 3-4 cardamom pods ((sub with 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder))
• 1 cup almond milk ((sub with cow’s milk or another plant-based milk of your choice) )
• 3 slices ginger (freshly sliced)
• 1 - 1 1/2 teaspoons raw sugar ((sub with brown sugar, coconut sugar, turbinado, raw sugar, maple syrup, or honey))

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine cacao powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk and stir well to incorporate into a paste.

2. 2

   If you are using the cardamom pods in this recipe, crush them in a mortar and pestle first to release their flavor and aroma. Alternately, crush with the flat edge a knife, or grind them in a coffee grinder reserved for spices.

3. 3

   Heat milk, ginger slices, and crushed cardamom pods (or cardamom powder) in a small pot over medium heat. Watch carefully, and reduce the heat just as it comes to a boil.

4. 4

   Add the spiced cacao paste into the hot milk, and stir until thoroughly incorporated. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes with the heat on very low. The time will allow the cacao and spices to develop their flavors and harmonize together.

5. 5

   Choose your favorite mug and pour the spiced cacao through a strainer and into the mug. Add optional sugar if desired. Enjoy the taste, aroma, and experience.