Cocoa Nib Hot Chocolate

I love roasted cacao nibs. I know it's not a very popular flavor, but it is my favorite. I'm sure there are some people out there who don't like them either, but they're just too delicious to pass up. You can buy these nibs at any specialty food store. They are nutty and sweet and crunchy all at the same time. It's hard to describe exactly what they taste like because they're so different from one another. The ones that come in the small packages are usually the best tasting. I like to eat them by themselves or sprinkle them on top of ice cream or yogurt. They're also good mixed into oatmeal, granola, smoothies, cakes, cookies, brownies, and even cocktails. They are considered a super food full of nutrients and antioxidants as well a boost of energy. For some they are an acquired taste but you should try them!

In this recipe I have combined nibs with water and maple syrup in my Vita Mix to make a drink. A regular blender will maybe give you a bit of a courser drink. You can serve this delicious drink hot, warm, cold with and ice cubes. You can add sparking water with or without flavor to the process chocolate for a refreshing drink. If you want no sweetness- cut out the maple syrup or if you want a sweeter drink- add more maple syrup before or after mixing,

Ingredients:

• Two 4 ounce, 1/2 cup drinks
• 1/4 cup of cacao nibs
• 1 cup of water
• 1 Table spoon of maple syrup

Place all ingredients in your Vitamix and process for 10 to 15 seconds. Enjoy!

My notes;

Substitute maple syrup with other sweetener. For instance you can replace maple syrup with Stevia for a low glycemic product. You will maybe add 1.2 a tablespoon to this recipe.

Add a touch of cinnamon, orange oil/zest

Add any spritzer of your choice for a lighter drink

Add a touch of your favorite spirit like rum for an elegant cocktail.

I love this recipe because it is easy and versatile. I've made it both hot and cold, and it's delicious every way. This is also a great way to use up any leftover cacao nibs. I have found that the larger pieces tend to be the tastiest. Also, I find that the smaller the piece, the quicker they go bad. I think the larger the piece the better the taste. The more surface area you have the more intense the flavor.

The main thing is to experiment and have fun!

Posted using Neoxian City