Chocolate really has a way of showing someone that you care, doesn’t it? (Maybe this is why it’s such a common gift for Valentine’s Day and other holidays focused on celebrating love.)
Unfortunately, most chocolate-filled treats out there are also loaded with sugar and artificial additives that can sometimes lead to headaches, tummy troubles, mood swings, and other not-so-pretty effects.
Luckily, there is a way to give the gift of chocolate while also helping your loved one feel healthy and nourished too.
One of my favorite giftable chocolate treats comes from friend and fellow dietitian, Ginger Hultin, RD, who combines unsweetened cocoa with silken tofu and maple syrup to create a simple yet deliciously healthy (and vegan!) chocolate mousse.
What could be better than health-ified chocolate mousse to show your loved one that you care?
The secret to a decadent chocolate mousse that nourishes on both an emotional and physical level is tofu! (Yes, you read that right!)
Tofu is a rich source of plant-based protein and beneficial plant phytochemicals called isoflavones.
Protein provides energy to help prevent fatigue, helps maintain lean muscle strength and fuel physical activity, and supports a strong and effective immune system. Eating enough protein also helps us feel satisfied and full until our next meal or snack.
Isoflavones (plant phytochemicals also known as phytoestrogens) are found in high levels in tofu and other soy products and have been linked with lower risk for cancer and cardiovascular disease, lower rates of bone fractures, and fewer/less severe menopausal symptoms (like hot flashes).
Beyond the health benefits, silken tofu is also used in this recipe to create that dreamy mousse texture we all know and love. (Combined with chocolate, there’s nothing not to love about this sweet, comforting treat.)
So, no matter what your loved one is going through, you can show your support by offering up these deliciously indulgent and nourishing vegan chocolate mousse cups that are sure to impress.
This recipe can be fully prepared ahead of time for convenience. Just leave any toppings on the side until you’re ready to serve and store mousse cups in the fridge for up to a week.
Along with the cocoa powder, coconut, or sprinkles that Ginger suggests as optional mousse toppings, I also love the idea of topping this mousse with chopped nuts (for crunchy texture and more protein and healthy fats!), fresh berries (for added sweetness beneficial antioxidants), or even a little dash of cayenne pepper for the chili-lover in your life!
Serves: 2-3
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Dreamy Vegan Chocolate Mousse
TOTAL TIME
240 MIN
PREP TIME
5 MIN
This healthy and comforting version of everyone’s favorite indulgence (chocolate) is a lovely way to provide support for families in any situation. Recipe authors Ginger Hultin, RD and Stephanie McKercher provide loves ones with all the comfort – and none of the chocolate hangover associated with traditional mousse. Easy to make – and then pop into the the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1 package (1 pound container) silken tofu, drained of excess liquid
- ¼ cup unsweetened vanilla almond or soy milk
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup baking cocoa (unsweetened)
- Unsweetened shredded coconut or your favorite sprinkles as garnish
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Place ¾ cup servings into ceramic ramekins or martini glasses and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or even overnight. Garnish with additional cocoa powder, shredded coconut or colorful sprinkles if desired!
Reference
Vegetarian Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group. Health Effects of Soy. 2015.
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