Immune Boosting Mushroom Hot Chocolate

Now that winter is upon us, there are lots of nasty cold and flu bugs circulating the community. It is often around this time that we seek out specific tonics or supplements that will prevent us from getting sick or support recovery from illness.

Using food as medicine at this time can not only provide warmth and nourishment on these cooler days but fortify our natural immune defences. 

Mushrooms such as Shitake, Maitake and Reishi have been used for both medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries. They not only provide us with a source of protein but also contain antioxidants plus immune-modulating and stimulating polysaccharides called beta-glucans which support the body’s natural immune response to infection.

This hot chocolate recipe is the perfect cozy antidote to those cool winter mornings or evenings, with the addition of these wonderful fungi it also supports your immune system at the same time!

Makes 2 Servings

Ingredients

2 cups organic almond milk (or milk of choice)

• 2 tbsp organic raw cacao powder 

• 1 tbsp dried organic Shitake powder *

• 1 tbsp dried organic Maitake powder *

• ½ tbs dried organic Reishi powder *

• 1 tbsp maple syrup, honey or natural sweetener of choice (adjust to taste)

• Pinch of sea salt 

• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

• ¼ tsp cayenne or black pepper for a spicy kick

  *Get in touch to order your medicinal mushrooms

Inclusions To Consider:

* You may also want to add in 1 tbsp plant-based protein powder or collagen for an extra protein boost or add a prebiotic fibre such as partially hydrolysed guar gum (PHGG) to provide food for beneficial gut bugs 😊

Method:

1. Heat the milk: in a large milk frothing jug or medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Allow to steam, but do not boil. 

2. Add the powders: whisk in the cacao and mushroom powders until well combined. 

3. Sweeten as desired: with preferred sweetener

4. Add in protein powder or prebiotics if using

5. Enhance flavour: simmer on low for an extra 5 minutes to let the flavours infuse 

6. Pour into cups and serve immediately!

If you'd like some support for your immune system through the winter months, to strengthen or recover from a recent illness or to restore gut health after antibiotics, book a consultation with Michelle our Naturopath on Wednesdays and Thursdays at Beattie Street.