Cashew Date Chocolate Mousse

This mousse is creamy, rich, and decadent. It is also free of dairy, eggs, and sugar.  Sweetened with dates, flavored with cocoa powder and real vanilla extract, this dessert is fit for a special occasion or a weeknight indulgence. For someone on a restricted diet, this dessert can be a welcome break from their regular eating routine. For someone who is not on a restricted diet, this dessert can provide a nutritious alternative to their regular high-fructose corn syrup heavy, processed dessert full of preservatives and refined oils, all of which counteract health.

Refined sugar consumption robs your body of minerals, while dates contain many minerals that are important for maintaining health.  Containing potassium, magnesium, manganese, and calcium, but also B6, folate, and antioxidants, dates are well rounded enough to support the entire body, including bone health, the nervous system, hormone metabolism, and the heart.

Cashews also pack a nutritious punch, so this little bowl of Chocolate Mousse indulgence can really catapult your nutrient intake for the day. Cashews contain vitamin K, choline, B5, selenium, magnesium, and zinc. Choline and B5 support cognitive functioning. Selenium is known to turn off certain genes markers, providing protection from your DNA expressing itself for the worse. Selenium also supports the thyroid. Zinc is a co-factor in many metabolic reactions in the body, but also supports wound healing and immunity.

Please try this recipe so that you can spoil yourself while also providing some self-care with a healthy indulgence.

Ingredients:

1 c. raw cashews

15 Deglet dates, pitted, or about 3/4 c. any variety

Hot water

1/2 c. coconut milk (from a can)

1/4 c. cocoa powder

1 tsp. real vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. sea salt

Method:

Place cashews and dates into a heat-safe bowl and pour steaming hot water over to cover. Let soak for 1 hour to soften. Drain off water completely using a strainer or colander. Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender or Vitamix. Start blender speed on low and gradually increase speed as the mixture begins to move more freely. Using a spatula, keep the mixture moving around blender blades until smooth and creamy. Spoon into four small bowls and chill for 4 hours to overnight before serving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

These recommendations are for educational purposes only.  They are not intended as treatment or prescription for any disease, or as a substitute for regular medical care.