Cardamom-Banana-Milkshake

Dear Vinepire,

Sometimes, even classics need a polish up, and today we´re going to do it with the banana milkshake. I remember drinking it in summer so often, that I was not hungry at dinner time afterwards… but I never did it during wintertime. I just want something more spicy during the cold season… and here I found it! http://food52.com/recipes/12698-banana-cardamom-milkshake

I fell so deeply in love with this genius version of my favourite childhood milkshake that I decided to change it a little to fit it into my daily diet. I recommend you to test out the original version (and get addicted) and maybe try out this little recipe of mine.

For 2 portions :

-1 large banana

-1 cup of almond or soy milk

-1 pinch of cardamom, grounded

-1 large pinch of cinnamon

Simply mix it all together in the blender, until smooth ad foamy, and voilà! Because you used plant-based milk, it will be poor in calories and very light, while still melting like a mousse on your tongue. I recommend almond milk because of the rich consistency. To my fellow chocolate lovers I suggest replacing the spice with a good teaspoon of cocoa powder… hmmm. The milkshake is also delicious on ice!

Thank you so much for reading,

Your Vine Vampire

PS : If you want to make your own almond milk, look it up here.

Healthy Chocolate Mousse (Vegan)

Dear Vinepire,

I don´t know if it´s me, or does everyone suffer from an underlying chocolate addiction? Well, do not worry anymore about those calories piling up, unhealthy fats and lactose involved, because here comes the recipe I stumbled upon right here http://food52.com/recipes/16044-herve-this-chocolate-mousse ,clearly invented by a genius. Just look at the ingredients and you will understand :

For 4 people (or a very hungry one) :

– 6 ounces of water

– 8 ounces of quality dark chocolate

– Ice cubes

Pour the water into a saucepan, and when at medium-low heat, add your chopped chocolate. While being whisked, the mixture should become homogenous. Now, having put the ice into a large bowl, place a smaller one on top and fill it with the sauce. Whisk it using an electric mixer under close watch, and as soon as it has become thick, transfer into small bowls and voilà! Your metamorphosed chocolate will taste delicious left pure or topped with whipped cream or sweet orange zest. Enjoy!

Thank you so much for reading,

Your Vine Vampire

PS : I hope all that whisking involved won´t distract you from commenting on your results. Hope you enjoy your vegan treat!