On the hunt for a fresh, new sweet treat to celebrate Love Day? This yummy, libido-lifting, vegan confection may just hit the sweet spot! Combining uplifting and euphoric herbs with the slightly sweet tang of raspberries and creaminess of cashews, this mousse is a perfect light dessert for a romantic evening or, really, any time you want to treat yourself!
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) leaf has a spicy aphrodisiacal effect and, though part of the mint family, it is considered a warming herb. It has been known to stimulate blood flow in the pelvic region. Used in Central America by the indigenous people for centuries as a sexual tonic, it is also considered a relaxing and strengthening tonic for the central nervous system.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) flower provides anti-oxidant, nutrient-rich, sweet and tangy aroma and flavor. It is in the Mallow family and contains high amounts of Vitamin C and can tonify tissues, move the blood and also act as a nervous system tonic....Are you seeing a pattern?
Lemongrass (Cimbopogon citratus) like most "Lemon" named herbs is not a true citrus but carries that uplifting yet relaxing quality about it. Lemongrass is native to Southeast Asia and has shown great medicinal benefit for stomach ailments, pain relief and anxiety reduction....just to name a few. It is said that this herb helps to "increase, clarify, and sweeten communication" between people. Beautiful!
Yerba Aphrodisiaca Cashew Mousse
1 cup raw cashews
1/4 cup water
1/2 tsp. Damiana leaves
1/4 tsp. Lemongrass leaves
1/4 tsp. Hibiscus leaves
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 tsp. salt
2 cups fresh Raspberries
1. Cover cashews in water and soak for 8 hours/overnight. 2. When finished soaking, drain cashews and set aside. 3. Heat the 1/4 cup water, add damiana, lemongrass and hibiscus and steep for 10 minutes. 4. Strain out herbs. 5. Combine your tea, syrup, oil and salt until just melted. 6. In blender or food processor, combine liquid mixture with cashews and raspberries until completely smooth. 7. Refrigerate at least 6 hours before serving. 8. You can garnish with a halved raspberry and some mint, some dark chocolate shavings or whatever takes your fancy! Enjoy!