Cinnamon Chai Cashew Milk

When the 3.30 pm munchies hit we love to make cinnamon chai cashew milk.  It’s packed full of protein and all things yummy and good for the body, plus it satisfies that craving for something a little indulgent and sweet mid afternoon. Try it over lots of ice to sip slowly at your desk, or warm with a little extra water and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon. I love anything chai and infusing the warming and sweet spice of cinnamon makes this purely irresistible. The trick when making this is not to be too heavy handed with the spices, a little goes a long way. You can adjust the level of sweetness of the chai cashew milk by adding less dates. What’s great about it: Cashew nuts are packed with protein, antioxidants and minerals including magnesium and copper. Cashews are high in the amino acid tryptophan which helps to make serotonin – the FEEL GOOD hormone responsible for feelings of wellbeing and feeling great! Serotonin is also crucial for the proper development of the enteric nervous system (ENS) to support digestion. Cashews are also a good source of magnesium essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. The heart healthy fats are mostly anti-inflammatory oleic fats. These monounsaturated fats are the same as found in olive oil and macadamia that are good for cardiovascular health. Cinnamon improves insulin’s efficiency, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon can also help boost brain activity. Vanilla helps relax the nervous system and reduce inflammation. It is rich in antioxidants and can also enhance mental performance. Ginger has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It helps to boost immune function and combat cellular damage.
1/2 cup raw cashew nuts
3 cups water
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or ground vanilla powder
3 fresh pitted dates
Method: Soak cashew nuts in water for 3 hours, then drain and rinse.
Add cashew nuts to a blender and add the 3 cups of water, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla and fresh pitted dates. Blend on high speed for about 1 minute or until creamy.
Pour into a glass jar, cover and refrigerate until icy cold. Enjoy when you feel like a creamy, protein rich, dairy free treat. Makes 3 cups.
Notes + Inspiration: Serve in glasses filled with ice, and dust over a little ground cinnamon. Add 2 teaspoons Naked Chocolat for a chocolate treat. Blend 1 cup of cashew milk with 1 frozen banana and spoonful of Protein Powder for the ultimate power smoothie. Add a pinch of turmeric and smallest pinch of nutmeg for the ultimate healthy eggnog. Use a little raw honey to sweeten in place of dates.