Raw Fermented Chocolate Avocado Pudding

 This would make a healthy but really good Valentines Day treat.  

Raw, Paleo, Vegetarian, gluten and soy free (Dairy free option)

Serves 4/ took me 5 minutes to make 

Ingredients

2 soft avocados (peeled, pitted, scooped out of shell)

1/3 c. cocoa powder or cacao powder

2 T. almond butter (see note)

1/2 T. raw local honey* (see note below)

1/2 cup goat milk kefir* (see note below)

1 t. vanilla extract

Toppings (optional): sprinkle on sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, grated chocolate, strawberries or shredded coconut 

Directions: Add all to food processor and process until smooth. Spoon into dessert cups. Top with topping of your choice and serve or chill until ready to serve.  

Notes:

  1. Opt for pure almond butter. Many local stores now grind almonds fresh daily.  Otherwise read the back label and choose a brand that does not have added oils and sugar. 
  2. If you are using honey, raw and local is best.  If not using honey, you can try liquid stevia or pure monk fruit and play with the amount according to your taste preference.  
  3. Kefir: this is what makes it a fermented food.  You can use cow milk kefir if you can tolerate it or try coconut kefir (if you can find it in your stores-I can never find it locally).  You can also use plain almond, coconut or cashew yogurt instead of kefir. The kefir gives this recipe a bit of a tangy taste which depending on your preference you may or may not like.  

Health Benefits

Raw Honey: Can reduce your seasonal/pollen allergy symptoms, natural source of energy, immune system booster

Fermented Kefir: Supports gut health, supports your immune system, may improve IBS and IBD, may improve brain health, mental health,  cognition, focus and mood disorders, can aid in weight loss.  (if you tolerate dairy)

Avocado: Rich in healthy mon0-saturated fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Great for healthy skin and hair and eye health to name a few benefits.  

Almond Butter: Rich in healthy fats and protein.  Good for healthy cholesterol levels, combatting heart disease and providing you with energy.  

Raw Cacao: This is different than cocoa.  Cocoa is processed at a high temperature which destroys much of the benefits.  Raw cacao is antioxidant rich, contains magnesium, iron, calcium and enzymes. 

 

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