“FOOD THAT RAWKS”: Surviving the Holidays Edition. Espresso YourSelf Cacoa drink with macadamia cream.

Seeking alternatives to your favorite caffinated sips can be a little tricky if you have grown quite faund of the deep flavor and quick energy of a Espresso topped with the frothy love. For me, giving up coffee was like giving up a ceremony with friends. Holding the warm cup in my paws, while sharing strories around the table after dinner was such an events I looked forward to. The warm cups in hand made the events a true ceremony, so naturally I had to find a worthy replacment.

For those who have been experimenting with trading out their ceremonial coffee drinks, and haven’t been satisfied yet…I have great news! Lets feel the energy without the jitters shall we!

Eventhough Cacoa is gaining popularity for it’s energy boost, it has also been confused with containing amounts of caffein like it’s sister the coffee bean.

Cacoa is a mild stimulant, yet easy on the system when consumed in small quantities. The cacao bean can be found whole, Nibs, or powder form making it smooth and delightful for desserts and smoothies. Cacoa has a bitter taste, but when couled with agave, or other sweeters it tastes more like chocolate.

I can’t think of anything better than a dark rich cocoa beverage after a Holiday meal with the family.

Espresso YourSelf Serves 4

3 c Hot water

2 Tb cacao Powder

2 TB cacoa Nibs

1 tsp cayenne (optional)

4 pitted dates

Blend well, pour into espresso cups or coffee mugs Top with Macadamia cream.

Macadamia cream

1 c macadamias soaked

1/2 c Young thai coconut meat

1/4 c agave

pinch salt

1 tsp vanilla

Blend well, adding cool pure water to help turn. Spoon over warm cacoa drink.

Recipes provided by owner and chef, Mellissa Mango of the lovely Terra Bella Restraunt in Redondo beach California.

Find out more about the Raw Food Diet at www.TerraBellaCafe.com