Here’s what I’ve been craving lately: Raw cacao (ka-kow, rhymes with “cow”. Yes, raw cacao brownies, truffles and fudge! Cacao is unadulterated, unprocessed “original” chocolate. The fruit of the cacao tree is bean-like, a pod that’s ground into nibs and powder au naturel, no heat or alkaline processing. Look for great recipes for raw cacao on line or pick up David Wolf’s book, “Naked Chocolate.” Raw cacao enthusiasts believe in “Life By Chocolate,” raw cacao that is, as opposed to the American version of “Death By Chocolate.” Raw cacao and high quality conventional dark chocolate are excellent sources for magnesium and anti-oxidants. Isn’t that great news?Many of us don’t often prepare our own desserts, so here’s what I’ve been doing lately:  ordering raw truffles and brownies from www.ulimana.com and I’ve been enjoying raw cacao fudge at Alchemy Juice Bar & Café in Hartford, CT.  

Explore the world of raw cacao. Try preparing a smoothie using raw cacao, coconut milk and agave nectar for sweetener. Prepare this wonderful “food of the gods” for a celebration of health and a great pick-me-up. Eat more chocolate….in the form of raw cacao. You’ll feel perkier, clear-minded, and just plain better. Here are a couple of recipes to try.

 Raw Chocolate Mousse 

3-4 dates, pitted

1/3 cup agave nectar

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 avocados, mashed

1/3 cup raw cacao powder

(Optional:  add 1-2 tbsp raw cacao nibs for texture)

1/4 – 1/3 cup water

 Place dates, agave and vanilla in food processor and process until smooth. Add the avocado and cacao powder and process until creamy. Add water and process briefly.

Raw Chocolate Candy 

12 tbsp raw cacao powder

6 tbsp agave nectar

6 tbsp coconut oil

2 tbsp coconut milk (optional)

3 tbsp shredded coconut

2 tbsp shredded coconut to sprinkle on top of candies (optional)