Chocoholics often feel that nothing beats a rich piece of chocolate, a sumptuous slice of chocolate cake or a聽 creamy serving of chocolate ice cream. Chocolate contains four times the amount of catechins as tea, and it contains the same heart-healthy flavonoids as red wine. However, the way chocolate is prepared can affect its potential health benefits. For those who want a healthy, low-fat chocolate option that鈥檚 easier on the waistline, smoothies may be the way to go.
This recipe for 鈥淕uilt-Free Banana Chocolate Smoothie鈥� from Ellen Brown鈥檚 鈥淪uper Smoothies: 100 Recipes to Supercharge Your Immune System鈥� (Crestline) is one way to get a full dose of delicious chocolate (in two forms). This smoothie is chock-full of other ingredients, including a potassium-rich banana, that are part of a healthy, balanced diet. When the kids are indulging in ice cream, this smoothie offers parents the same texture and taste without all the guilt.
Guilt-Free Banana Chocolate Smoothie
Makes 4 1-cup servings
11鈦�2聽聽 聽cups chocolate soy milk
3聽聽 聽ounces chopped dark chocolate
3聽聽 聽tablespoons cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-processed
2聽聽 聽tablespoons bee pollen
2聽聽 聽tablespoons flaxseed oil
2聽聽 聽cups sliced banana
1聽聽 聽cup chocolate frozen yogurt
2聽聽 聽tablespoons shaved chocolate for garnish (optional)
Combine soy milk, chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, bee pollen, flaxseed oil, and banana in a blender or smoothie maker. Blend on high speed for 45 seconds or until mixture is pur茅ed and smooth. Add frozen yogurt, and blend on high speed again until mixture is smooth. Serve immediately, garnished with chocolate shavings, if desired.
