5 Ways to Incorporate Cacao into Your Daily Life
THE FOOD MATTERS TEAM
Cacao, often referred to as the "food of the gods," is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and mood-boosting compounds, cacao can support both physical and emotional well-being. If you’re looking to harness the benefits of this superfood, here are five simple and delicious ways to incorporate cacao into your daily routine.
1. Start Your Day with a Cacao Smoothie
A cacao smoothie is a perfect way to kickstart your day. By blending raw cacao powder with a mix of fruits, plant-based milk, and superfoods like chia seeds or spinach, you create a nutrient-dense, energy-boosting breakfast. The natural caffeine and theobromine in cacao provide a gentle lift in energy without the crash often associated with coffee. Our all-time favorite cacao smoothie recipe is this Mood Boosting Maca, Macadamia & Cacao Smoothie. >>
2. Swap Coffee for a Cacao Elixir
If you’re looking to cut back on caffeine but still want a warm, comforting drink, a cacao elixir is a satisfying alternative. Cacao offers a smoother, more sustainable energy boost, thanks to its natural compounds that enhance focus and mood without overstimulation.
Make sure to check out our favorite ceremonial grade cacao from our friends at Sacred Cacao.
3. Sprinkle Cacao Nibs on Your Snacks
Cacao nibs are small, crunchy pieces of cacao beans that pack a nutritional punch. They're a fantastic source of fiber, antioxidants, and magnesium, making them a perfect addition to your snacks. You can sprinkle cacao nibs on yogurt, oatmeal, or even mix them into trail mix for a nutrient-dense snack. Check out 25 ways you can use cacao nibs here.
Tip: Try mixing cacao nibs into homemade granola or energy balls for a satisfying snack with a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
4. Use Cacao in Savory Dishes
While cacao is commonly associated with sweets, its rich, earthy flavor also pairs beautifully with savory dishes. Incorporating cacao into chili, stews, or sauces can add depth and complexity to your meals. In Mexican cuisine, cacao is often a key ingredient in mole sauce, a savory blend of spices, chili, and chocolate.
Recipe idea: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cacao powder to your chili recipe to bring out a deep, rich flavor that compliments the spice and tomatoes.
5. Indulge in Cacao-Based Desserts
For those with a sweet tooth, cacao can be used to create healthier versions of your favorite desserts. Unlike processed chocolate, raw cacao retains its beneficial nutrients and offers a more natural, less sugary option. You can use raw cacao powder to make decadent but nutritious treats like energy balls, homemade chocolate, or cacao-infused chia pudding.
Some of the favorite cacao based desserts at Food Matters HQ are:
The Food Matters Team is made up of foodies that love getting in the kitchen and experimenting! When we aren't spreading our message with the world, that's where you will find us and just like you, we don't always succeed with our recipes, but that's part of the fun, right?