Avocado Chocolate Mousse

HEALTH

provided by Daniel Odescalchi

How often do you find a dessert that is healthy and contains the words “chocolate mousse?” Not too often! This month we share a recipe that will make you feel as though you are cheating, when in fact you are not. And it takes only minutes to prepare.

Besides tasting decadent, smooth, and creamy, Chocolate Avocado Mousse contains amazingly healthy nutritional properties. It is rich and creamy, but instead of relying on unhealthy fats and cream, the texture is a result of avocados.

Avocados are naturally rich in vitamin B 6, potassium, riboflavin, and folic nutrients that stabilize your hormones and improve blood circulation. Good blood circulation reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction in men. Meanwhile, avocados can decrease obesity, help balance diabetes, and even decrease heart disease risks. They contain ingredients that promote healthy complexion and increase energy levels. Its natural plant sterols contain healthy cholesterol. The fats in an avocado are mainly unsaturated and can decrease macular degeneration in the eyes.

Now for chocolate. Chocolate is a natural mood booster that taps the feel-good neurotransmitter. Unlike the other sex drive foods, chocolate elevates attraction and desire deep in the mind rather than in the body. But use dark chocolate because it has less sugar. Dark chocolate increases your serotonin resulting in a calming effect. It contains a small amount of phenylethylamine, which acts like an amphetamine and stimulates your cells to release dopamine. Dopamine plays a role in how we feel pleasure. You release dopamine when you eat chocolate and even when you think about eating chocolate. This response lasts as long as you eat or think about it! Perfect for romantic evenings.

Chocolate and avocado together, what a match! It’s healthy, contains omega 3’s, helps increase dopamine and calming effects, and has a luscious texture and taste. Visit our blog at Healthier2gether.com for more healthy recipes and information on how to achieve your optimal weight and stay as healthy as you can be. There is a delicious way to lose weight, be healthy and enjoy life.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients:

• flesh of 2 ripe avocados (240g)
• 1/4 cup regular cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup Dutch cocoa OR melted dark chocolate chips
• 3-4 tbsp milk of choice
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp salt
• sweetener of choice to taste (some use 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or a little kalua)

Instructions:

You have two options for this recipe: The version with the chocolate chips will be richer; the version with the Dutch cocoa (important to use Dutch) will be lower in fat and sugar. If using chocolate chips, you can melt in a microwave for 30 seconds, stir and microwave another 30 seconds. Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. I used 3 tbsp almond milk, but if you are not using a liquid sweetener then you might want to add a little extra for a smoother consistency.