No holiday gathering should be without a chocolate dip. The blended cashews add creamy goodness (but with significantly less saturated fat than heavy cream). Serve with a platter of fruit like cherries, strawberries and sliced apple and mango. If the dip hardens upon sitting, simply warm it over low heat in a saucepan before serving.
A number of studies suggest that polyphenol antioxidants in dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure numbers, thereby providing protection against stroke.
Per serving:
Place cashews in bowl, cover with water and soak for at least 2 hours. Drain cashews, place in blender along with 1/2 cup water and blend until smooth.
Melt chocolate in double boiler or heatproof bowl set over pan of lightly simmering water, stirring often.
Stir cashew cream into chocolate along with vanilla and spices.