The gift of chocolate is often considered one of love and affection. Wrapping the true decadence of chocolate in a bundle of heart-healthy ingredients with the special touch of something homemade, makes it a gift to be savored.
Cacao
Cacao, is one of nature’s most concentrated sources of antioxidants and is recognized as a good source of fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese. Antioxidants protect your cells from oxidative damage associated with age related degeneration and can help decrease inflammation in the body. Purchase raw cacao powder for the highest nutrient content.
Avocado
This nutrient-dense fruit packs more potassium than bananas and is a rich source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Potassium has been shown to reduce blood pressure, while monounsaturated fats are known to boost HDL and lower LDL, thereby improving your cholesterol profile. Avocados also provide anti-inflammatory nutrients, vitamin-k, and folate.
The Chef
Megan Matthews, has been creating alternative desserts for over 30 years. She takes pride in reinventing her favorite recipes by replacing processed ingredients, excess animal fats, and sugars with all organic products and nutritionally packed whole foods. The result is undeniably delicious.
CHOCOLATE AVOCADO MOUSSE
½ cup extra dark chocolate chips
⅓ cup agave
⅓ cup hot coffee or espresso
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
½ cup cacao powder
3 – 4 ripe avocados (about 2 cups)
⅓+ cup coconut, soy, or almond milk
¼ tsp salt
Directions
Warm the chocolate chips, agave, coffee and vanilla in a mixing bowl over a double boiler stirring continuously, or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, until chocolate chips are melted. Set aside to cool.
Combine the remaining ingredients along with the cooled chocolate mixture into a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, if needed, to achieve desired texture.
Spoon into glasses or individual bowls, cover and chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 3. Garnish with fresh strawberries or raspberries and a sprig of mint. Stays fresh for up to 4 days. Makes 6-8 servings.