With Christmas just right around the corner, Christmas favorites are starting to come back. And one of the most prevailing traditions of this Holidays is having a hot mug of hot chocolate right next to the tree. And nothing warms the heart, and the belly, more than this hot beverage.
But where did it came from? Who should we thank for this wonderful drink?
Hot Chocolate Origin
It is believed that it was the Mayans who first enjoyed the around 2,500-3,000 years ago. Cocoa drink was also an essential part of the Aztec culture during 1400 AD and they called it xocōlātl. But it was the Mexicans who introduced the the drink to Europeans, and has undergone multiple changes since then. And until the 19th century, hot chocolate was used to treat liver and stomach diseases. Hot chocolate exploded in popularity when cocoa started being produced in powder form.
Hot Chocolate Health Benefits
The consumption of hot chocolate can be positive to one's health, as many research have shown. A study by the Cornell University showed that it contains more antioxidants than wine and tea which helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, flavonoids found in the cocoa that makes up hot chocolate helps with a person's arterial health. A National Institutes of Health study showed high amounts of improvement in blood flow after drinking a flavanol-rich cocoa drink. Flavanols are also thought to help reduce blood platelet buildup and can balance levels of compounds called eicosanoids, which may be beneficial to cardiovascular health.
How to Make a Healthy Hot Chocolate
This recipe is sure to want you coming back for more. Filled with antioxidants, it tastes as good as it looks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 tbs cacoa powder
- Pinch cinnamon powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1 heaped tsp honey
- Pinch sea salt
Method
- Combine milk,cacoa poweder, vanilla and cinnamon into a small pot and gently heat.
- Turn off heat and stir in the honey.
- Add more depending on desired taste.
For more recipes using chocolates, visit this page.
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