Disclaimer: We compose this recipe from the bits and pieces of information and archeological records left after the violent colonization of Turtle Island (aka North America). We in no way claim to know exactly how this traditional beverage was prepared for hundreds or thousands of years before us.
As detailed in the book “Black Drink” by the late Charles Hudson, Black Drink is one translation for the name of traditional beverage prepared for both daily and ritual use across this continent dating back over one thousand years. While Black Drink has many variations, we focus on the combination of cacao and yaupon in this recipe. This is one of our favorite and best selling beverages. It also makes your whole kitchen smell amazing!
Diaspora Black Drink
Ingredients
- 25 grams of Diaspora Yaupon Espresso Grind
- 2 cups of water
- 2 Tbsp of cacao powder
- 2 Tbsp of agave syrup
- Any kind of milk (optional)
Directions
- Add the yaupon and water to a pot and stir well. Bring the mixture to ~185° F. Reduce heat to maintain the temperature between 180-190 degrees for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Meanwhile, mix the cacao powder and agave well to form a thick syrup. A teaspoon of hot water may help with mixing.*
- Once the yaupon finishes brewing, strain it through fine metal mesh and pour into two small mugs.
- Add one tablespoon of the cacao-agave syrup to each cup and mix well.
- If you are adding milk, heat and froth it for latte art, or simply add it to each cup.
- Sip slowly (if you can) and enjoy!
For use in an espresso machine, simply replace the coffee with the yaupon. Experiment with increasing the amount and how hard you press it down until you find the strength you like.