Increase endurance and boost your mood with a decadently delicious Beet, Blackberry, and Chocolate (Raw Cacao) Smoothie.
The combination of beets, blackberries, and raw cacao is both delicious and nutritious! Beets enhance cardiovascular function combined with high amounts of vitamin C from blackberries. Add the incredible antioxidants from chocolate (raw cacao) and this smoothie is a powerhouse of nutrients.
Additionally, this smoothie offers about 8 grams of plant protein (raw almond butter) and heart-healthy unsaturated fats providing necessary sustainable energy!
What is the Difference Between Cacao and Cocoa?
Raw cacao is made by cold-pressing un-roasted cacao beans. Cocoa may look like cacao, but it is not the same. Cocoa powder is raw cacao that has been roasted at high temperatures which can change the molecular structure of the cacao bean reducing its overall nutritional value. Although cocoa contains many nutritional benefits, raw cacao is more nutrient dense. It’s healthy AND tasty, so adding raw cacao to your diet is a win!
Health Benefits of Raw Cacao
Lowers insulin resistance
Provides minerals, such as zinc, potassium, and iron
Protects your nervous system
Shields nerve cells from damage
Reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease
Protects the body against free radicals
Reduces your risk of stroke
Reduces blood pressure
Cacao is also a stellar mood enhancer, as it can increase certain neurotransmitters promoting a sense of well-being. "The same brain chemical that is released when we experience deep feelings of love – phenylethylamine – is found in chocolate" (Food Matters). And who doesn't want to feel more in love? Cheers!
BEET, BERRY AND CHOCOLATE (RAW CACAO) SMOOTHIE RECIPE
INGREDIENTS (serves 1-2)
1 red beetroot and greens
1 cup blackberries (frozen or fresh)
1 banana
2 tbsp raw cacao powder (add more for a stronger chocolate flavor)
2 tbsp almond butter
1 cup almond milk or coconut water (almond milk provides a creamier texture)
dash of cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla
1 scoop plant-based unflavored or chocolate-flavored protein powder (optional)
maple syrup, honey, or stevia to taste (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Gently wash the beetroot and beet greens, detaching greens from root. If not using beet greens, add greens of your choice, such as kale, spinach, or chard. Save beet stems to add to soups or create a Quick-Pickled Beet Stems side-dish.
2. Peel beetroot and cut in cubes or quarters.
3. In a high-speed blender, add all ingredients. Pulse until smooth. If using frozen fruit, smoothie will be chilled. Add ice if using fresh fruit and you prefer a chilled smoothie. Enjoy!
STILL HUNGRY?
