Creative Cocoa
Spiced, soymilk hot chocolate puts a healthy twist on tradition

(Family Features) - Nothing says comfort on a chilly winter's day like a steaming mug of hot cocoa. For many of us, hot chocolate means a cup of hot water with a powdered packet of mix stirred in. But, in reality, making authentic hot chocolate doesn't require a big investment of time or effort-and its taste far exceeds that of the powdered variety.

The hot chocolate recipe featured here incorporates the goodness of organic soymilk and silken tofu, which ups the health ante on this traditional cold-weather favorite. And, best of all, this healthful, yet decadent-tasting, treat comes together in just about 10 minutes. Simply simmer together soymilk and spices, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes for the flavors to infuse, and then strain and garnish with fresh whipped tofu cream, a drizzle of honey and a cinnamon stick.

"Spiced hot chocolate provides a sensuous experience. It is a warming drink, due to cardamom, an aromatic spice from the ginger family," says Chef Jim Coleman, host of PBS-TV's "Healthy Flavors" cooking show, and a fan of using soy products in his kitchen. "Both chocolate soymilk and silken tofu are tremendously versatile ingredients for cooks who like to prepare delicious, heart-healthy dishes."

Soy Stars

Soy products--such as the Vitasoy Chocolate Soymilk and Nasoya Silken Tofu used in the spiced hot chocolate recipe--provide stellar results in dishes ranging from drinks to dips to entrees. Not only do they make great substitutes for dairy products, but they also provide a host of other benefits.

They are:

• High in calcium
• Low in saturated fat
• Dairy- and lactose-free
• Cholesterol- and preservative-free
• USDA Certified Organic
• Kosher
• Vegan
• Excellent sources of high-quality protein, essential fatty acids and dietary fiber

Spiced Hot Chocolate
Makes 4 Servings

1 quart Vitasoy Rich Chocolate soymilk
6 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon cardamom seeds
10 cloves
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons Nasoya silken tofu
3 teaspoons honey

Place the Vitasoy Rich Chocolate soymilk, 2 of the cinnamon sticks, cardamom seeds, cloves and nutmeg in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat. Remove from heat and set aside for 5 minutes to allow flavors to infuse. Strain the liquid, discarding spices. In a blender, whip the cream and tofu together until thickened. Divide the spiced hot chocolate between serving glasses. Top with a dollop of silken cream, drizzle with a little honey and serve with a cinnamon stick.

Nutrients per serving: 280 calories, 15g total fat, 7g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 40mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 29g total carbohydrate, 1g dietary fiber, 23g Sugar, 8g protein, 30% DV calcium.

For more quick and easy recipe ideas, visit www.vitasoy-usa.com.

SOURCE: Vitasoy