The husband and I have a ritual where we do not dine out on Valentine's Day. Maybe it is the countless years of working in the service industry, pockmarked with overpriced prix fixes and catering to cranky couples who feel like they MUST dine out on the 14th, that just makes me want to stay in. Instead, we typically grab a great bottle of sparkling and provision a few special ingredients to elevate our evening meal.
Whether you are kicking back with some drinks and good friends, snuggling with your furry companion, or heading out on a romantic rendezvous, here is a warm, stimulating, and sweet ending to your Valentine's Day with some added benefits.
This spiced hot chocolate is not your basic mix. It is loaded with feel good aromatics that will, for sure end your evening on a high note.
Pep In Your Step Spiced Hot Chocolate
Serves 2
- 3 cups milk of your choice or water ( I like hazelnut or hemp milk)
- 4 tbsps raw cacao powder
- 2 tbsps maple or coconut sugar
- Pinch sea salt
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 cinnamon sticks (optional garnish)
Warm water or milk in a pot over low heat. Whisk in dry ingredients. Serve immediately with a cinnamon stick.
Cayenne pepper- If it’s too hot, you may shed a tear or need a tissue to mop up your runny nose and sweaty palms, but spicy peppers induce endorphins which can lead to feelings of euphoria.
Cinnamon- If you are feeling a little discomfort following a meal, cinnamon can help with nausea and other digestive issues which may get in the way of your evening activities. Added bonus, cinnamon helps control sugar levels and is the ideal partner with the maple sugar in this recipe.
Raw Cacao - Cacao is loaded with magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, and calcium. Cacao contains serotonin and the precursors to serotonin which enhance and stimulate the mind, taking you to your happy place.
Wishing you a happy Valentine's Day vegheads! Do not forget to treat yourself!
