A Delicious Decadent Dessert
I still like my previous Chocolate mousse recipe made with avocado but this one I tried after watching a video on Instagram is so much better! It’s creamy and for those who like me love their cacao, its fabulous!
The list of benefits of cacao is very long and, of course, I’m talking about real cacao, organic dark chocolate that contains at least 75% cacao and almost no sugar. Dark chocolate is the most nutrient-dense, thanks to its higher cacao content. In fact, the Mayan civilisation used cacao as early as 1400 BC, brewing it into a bitter drink known as xocolatl. It was used in healing, rituals, and even as currency. The term “cocoa” is simply a later British adaptation of cacao.
Raw cacao is a fabulous source of natural chemicals called flavonoids, a type of antioxidant compound that promotes general health, improve the mood and might lower your risk of several diseases.
Modern studies have confirmed cacao’s powerful health effects, especially for the heart and brain:
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Cardiovascular Support
A 2013 study in the FASEB Journal showed that dark chocolate helps prevent white blood cells from sticking to vessel walls, reducing the risk of blood clots and atherosclerosis. It also enhances arterial flexibility, improves HDL cholesterol, and increases nitric oxide, helping to lower blood pressure. -
Cognitive & Mood Benefits
Cacao is rich in epicatechin, a flavonoid linked to improved cognitive function, better memory, and reduced risk of dementia. It also contains phenylethylamine, which stimulates endorphin release and boosts mood. -
Insulin Sensitivity
Other flavonoids in cacao have been shown to reduce insulin resistance, supporting blood sugar balance. -
Tooth & Mineral Health
Theobromine, another natural stimulant in cacao, may help strengthen tooth enamel (though this compound is toxic to pets). Cacao is also a good source of magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, manganese, and potassium.
Do you know that Raw cacao powder contains 30g fibre per 100g and 27g protein per 100g.
Ingredients
- 200g silken tofu (organic, Non GMO)
- 100g melted dark chocolate (organic at least 75%)
- 30g tahini
- 2 or 3 Tbsp Organic Cacao Powder
- 1 drop Young Living Cardamon or Cinnamon oil
- Depending on personal taste add a couple of Medjool dates or Coconut syrup
To decorate
Fresh raspberries or Goji Berries, Pistachio nuts or Almonds (slivered)
Method
- Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over boiling water, or in the microwave. Allow to cool slightly.
- Add all the ingredients to a food processor and process until smooth. Taste and add dates if necessary.
- Pour into 4 small ramekins or glass jars and pop into the fridge to set.
- Decorate with raspberries and pistachio nuts and serve.
Links: Dr Lisa Barker Original Recipe & Photo: Dominique Ludwig Nutrition