Chocolate Mint Rooibos

Has there ever been a flavor combination more ubiquitous than that of chocolate and mint? We’re all familiar with chocolate mint ice cream, chocolate mint bars, chocolate mint wafers – unfortunately, none of these are normally associated with a healthy lifestyle. Well all that has changed with the creation of Chocolate Mint Rooibos herbal tea. Finally, you can enjoy all the minty, chocolatey goodness you love minus the guilt it normally comes with.

Contrary to what you may first think, this herbal tea is packed with natural goodness. Rooibos (Latin: Aspalathus linearis), the base of the blend, contains many essential and revitalizing minerals and is believed to be good for the digestive system. Cacao beans (Latin: Theobroma cacao), enjoyed for millennia, are particularly rich in calcium. All natural Peppermint (Latin: Mentha piperita), has traditionally been prized for its ability to cure upset stomachs, among other things.

The undeniably amazing taste and healthy qualities of this tea make it an excellent, calorie free, after-dinner digestif. Brew a pot after your next spicy meal and note how the tea, as you sip it, seems to have a wonderfully calming effect on your body. This tea is also great as a summer time cool down drink. Simply pour your hot tea over a glass full of ice, add a sprig of fresh mint, a dash of sugar and sit back in your favorite recliner – ah, sweet perfection!

200 ml (about 7 ounces) of brewed Rooibos contains the following nutrients:

Hot tea brewing method: Bring freshly drawn cold water to a rolling boil. Place 1 teaspoon of Rooibos for each cup into the teapot. Pour the boiling water into the pot, cover and let steep for 3-7 minutes. Pour into your cup; add milk and sugar to taste.

Iced tea brewing method: (to make 1 liter/quart): Place 6 teaspoons of Rooibos into a teapot or heat resistant pitcher. Pour 1 1/4 cups of freshly boiled water over the Rooibos. Steep for 5 minutes. Quarter fill a serving pitcher with cold water. Pour the Rooibos into the serving pitcher straining the leaves. Add ice and top-up with cold water. Garnish and sweeten to taste.

References: [1] South African Medical Research Council - www.mrc.ac.za//promec/antimutagenic.htm