Normally the cacoa bean is roasted but raw cacao is cold pressed so no nutrients are lost by heat treating.
There are many benefits of eating chocolate that's been made with these raw cacao beans. The recipe given below is very simple and does not use any dairy milk, sugar or processed cocoa powder.
For a batch that can be set on a circle of baking parchment on a dinner plate:
100g raw cacao butter
50g raw cacao powder
50g dates (medijool are the nicest)
1 tbsp maple syrup (or other sweetener eg agave) More can be used for sweetness
Cacao nibs can be added for a bit of crunch
Sultanas can be used instead of dates
Nuts can be added for crunch
A few drops of lime essential oil and some himalayan salt make an alternative to dates
Gently melt the cacao butter in a bowl over a pan of hot water. Add the sieved cacoa powder & maple syrup & stir. Pour onto the baking parchment and spread with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the finely chopped dates evenly over the chocolate circle. When cool put in the fridge to go cold. Then cut into pieces and store in a container and if not eating in a few days, it keeps well in the freezer.
BENEFITS OF RAW CACAO
Improves mood as contains anandamide (known as bliss molecule) which binds to cannabinoid receptors in brain and boosts serotonin levels.
Flavanoids make skin glow, brings blood flow to skin surface and promotes cell regeneration. Theobromine in cacoa reduces water loss so keeps skin hydrated for longer. Anti-oxidants strengthen skin against environmental wear & tear.
Polyphenols improves blood flow to brain & cognitive function - good for memory & learning.
Lowers LDL, bad cholesterol & raises HDL, good cholesterol.
Combats fatigue.
High in vitamins & minerals & dietary fibre - magnesium, iron, phosphorous, vitamin C
Polyphenols improves blood flow to brain & cognitive function - good for memory & learning.