Sip On The Antioxidant Power Of Dark Chocolate Drinks

Sipping on the Rich, Antioxidant-Packed Goodness of Dark Chocolate

Chocolate conjures up decadent images of candy bars and desserts basically treats to be enjoyed occasionally. Yet emerging research suggests quality dark chocolate in drink form may offer intriguing health benefits thanks to its stellar nutritional profile. Lets explore the fascinating history, science and best indulgent recipes for this new wellness trend.

A Brief History of Drinking Chocolate

The very earliest origins of chocolate drinks likely date back over 3,000 years to the ancient Olmec and Mayan civilizations of Mesoamerica. They powdered cocoa beans and mixed them with spices and water to create a bitter, frothy beverage reserved for royalty and ritual ceremonies.

Over time, trade and invasion spread chocolate across Central and South America where cultures like the Aztecs consumed it as a luxury drink. Columbus brought cocoa beans back to Europe after his famous 15th century voyage. And chocolate quickly became fashionable among Spanish nobility before spreading throughout the continent still always as a hot or cold drink rather than solid candy.

In the 17th-19th centuries, chocolate houses sprang up all over England, Germany, Austria and France. Patrons gathered at these cafes to discuss politics and culture while sipping chocolate libations. Centuries later, devoted chocolate drink fans still tout its virtues.

From Sugary Milk Drinks to Dark Indulgence

Somewhere along the line, chocolate morphed from a slightly bitter adult beverage into a milky, sweet kids treat. But today a resurgence of interest in high quality dark chocolate revisits chocolates earliest unsweetened incarnations.

Upscale brands now offer drinking chocolate made from nutritious cacao blended with spices like cinnamon and chilies. These rich elixirs contain no dairy, sugar or artificial ingredients just lush dark chocolate enhanced by herbs and flavors.

Sipping one of these velvety potions transports you back hundreds of years. Yet the latest science on antioxidants makes this old school food trend wonderfully au courant again.

Dark Chocolate Nutrition: Natures Medicine

When it comes to chocolate, dark reigns supreme. The higher the percentage of cacao, the more beneficial compounds chocolate contains. And dark drinking chocolate amplifies that with zero additives diluting what makes cocoa beans so special.

Powerful Antioxidants

Much ado gets made about the antioxidant prowess of items like blueberries, green tea and red wine. But few foods pack more antioxidant power than dark chocolate.

Research published in Chemistry Central Journal shows cocoa and cacao contain over 10,000 different antioxidant flavonoids more than 3 times the amount found in wine or tea!

These antioxidants give dark chocolate drinks incredible capacity to combat inflammation, protect cells, improve heart health and more.

Magnesium for Blood Flow and Energy

This mineral plays a vital role in keeping blood pressure levels healthy. It also helps regulate blood sugar, aids nerve and muscle function, keeps bones strong and more.

And dark chocolate delivers substantial amounts of magnesium to meet and exceed daily requirements. Savoring magnesium-rich chocolate as a warm drink is wonderfully soothing while offering critical nutrient support.

Mood Boosting Compounds

From stimulating the production of feel good endorphins to igniting the love hormone oxytocin, several compounds in chocolate lift mood.

One in particular, anandamide, interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain similar to the active compounds in cannabis. This creates positive emotional effects making hot chocolate perfect for chill times.

Recipes: Classic Takes on Dark Chocolate Sipping

Ready to dip your toes in the lush lake of dark drinking chocolate? Start by trying one of these easy recipes:

Basic Hot Cacao

This straightforward 3-ingredient preparation uses coffee undertones to intensify chocolates inherent flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder
• 1 cup milk of choice dairy, nut, coconut, oat etc.
• 1 shot freshly brewed espresso or 1 tablespoon instant coffee (optional)

Method:

1. Heat milk of choice on stove or in microwave until steaming
2. Add cocoa powder and whisk vigorously until fully dissolved into creamy liquid
3. Stir in coffee shot or instant coffee granules
4. Enjoy your simple, antioxidant and magnesium-rich hot chocolate elixir

Spiced Mexican Drinking Chocolate

Warm up south of the border style with this cumin and cinnamon spiced cacao treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
• 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 14 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch cumin
• Pinch cayenne pepper
• Natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to taste (optional)

Method:

1. Heat milk over medium heat until steaming
2. Whisk in cacao powder briskly until dissolved
3. Add vanilla, cinnamon, cumin and cayenne pepper
4. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired
5. Mix well and enjoy with a dash more cinnamon or cayenne on top

Peppermint White Chocolate Cacao

This cooler twist combines the sweetness of white chocolate with fresh minty delight.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 3 tablespoons white chocolate chips
• 14 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 drop green food coloring (optional)

Method:

1. Heat milk gently until hot but not boiling
2. Add cacao powder and whisk thoroughly til dissolved
3. Stir in white chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth
4. Mix in peppermint extract and food coloring if desired
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes and garnish with a peppermint stick

Innovative Ideas: Adventurous Drinking Chocolate Recipes

Once you perfect the basics, get creative concocting your own signature dark chocolate drink recipes. Play with spices, extracts, sweeteners and spirits for personalized sipping luxury.

Flavor Infusion Ideas

Subtle flavor accents make hot chocolate pop:

• Almond, hazelnut or vanilla
• Cayenne, cinnamon or nutmeg
• Mint, orange, lemon or pumpkin pie spice
• Honey, maple, agave or stevia to sweeten

Liqueur Enhancements

For adults, add 1-2 ounces of your favorite spirit:

• Coffee Kahlua, rum or whiskey
• Fruit - Brandy, rum, champagne or wine
• Spice - Rum, brandy, whiskey or liqueurs
• Mint/herbal - Creme de menthe, Irish cream or anise liqueur

Topping Ideas

Make your hot chocolate a textural delight with fun finishing touches:

• Whipped cream
• Shaved chocolate
• Crushed peppermint
• Toasted marshmallows
• Chocolate or caramel sauce
• Cocoa nibs
• Rock salt

However you choose to prepare and enjoy it, high quality dark drinking chocolate makes for a luxurious beverage with impressive wellness benefits. Sip your way to better health!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.