Hot Cocoa casein-free, dairy-free, full of Omega 3 & 6, protein, vitamins

Did you ever drink a Shaklee protein shake or Ovaltine? This hot cocoa reminds me of those, only it tastes better, in my opinion. :0) And, of course, mine is free of casein and whey (or any other kind of dairy), soy, refined sugar, or anything else I don't want to eat or feed my family. It's made of almond milk, cacao powder, honey and Chia Seed meal. That's it. The chia is what gives it a slight Shaklee or Ovaltine flavor, so you could cut back on it if you prefer, but the girls and I love it. Plus the chia adds a thickness which we really like.

Chia Seeds are really phenomenal for you. They are rich in protein, iron, calcium and essential fatty acids, omega 3 and 6. They are a great substitute for eggs, as I've seen in my egg-free recipes, but they are even more nutritious uncooked. Heat damages and even destroys the omega 3 and 6, which we need so much for good health. That's why I blend these few ingredients to make hot cocoa and only heat them just slightly, being careful not to overheat.

I also add chia seeds (as well as other sources of omega 3 and 6, like hemp seeds) to anything I can. The girls and I drink lots of smoothies, which are another great way to get more of these seeds, and I put them in homemade ice cream, salad, salad dressing (the best way to thicken salad dressing!) and pie filling.

Hot Cocoa

Add to blender:

3 cups almond milk

(How to make almond milk Video.)

3 tbsp cocoa or Raw Cacao Powder

2 to 3 tbsp honey, depending on your taste

2 tbsp Chia Seed meal (I grind my chia seeds with a coffee grinder. The seed to meal ratio is about 1:2)

Puree.

Heat on the stovetop slightly, so as not to damage the omega 3 and 6.

I also thought I'd include this photo of our dog, Cherry, that I took today as well. She's sporting a new shirt, compliments of our neighbor, whose dog was too small for it. Thanks Gaea and Barry!

Love, Kelly

PS Don't forget to keep your chia seeds, like hemp seeds and nuts in the refrigerator.