It is easy to strive to increase raw food intake with the help of raw veganista Elizabeth Harris. In this video, Elizabeth shows me how decadent (and healthy) raw foods can be with a little creativity and know how.

This is definitely not your usually Mousse. But then again, I am not the usual consumer of foods. Through my work at CultureMap.com, I have had the opportunity to meet some very cool people, creative chefs, and interesting (and colorful) personalities.

While interviewing Elizabeth Harris, a raw gourmet vegan chef and owner of Houston’s first raw vegan restaurant, I happen to reveal an obsession with all things chocolate. Then again, I believe I am not the only one with this fixation.

Raw cooking, at the hands of someone with culinary brains, is actually delicious, indulgent, and darn flavorful. Although my intent is not to turn into a raw foodist, I do understand (and will promote) and increase in raw food intake, as long as it continues to be vegan good eats.

Below is a doctored up version of Elizabeth’s recipe. The addition of the banana gives it a je ne sais quoi, and the maca powder heightens the antioxidant amount of this indulgent yet quite healthy dessert.

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 cup of dates soaked in water, overnight
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoon carob powder
• 1 tablespoon maca powder
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar (if desired)
• pinch of salt

This could not be easier. Toss everything in the food processor and go to town until you have reached the desired consistency. Smooth, creamy, and rich.

Fun with chocolate

Although Elizabeth prefers to start by pureeing the dates and avocado first, I have found that the same consistency is reached by processing everything at once. But by putting the cocoa, carob and maca powders first in the food processor, you’ll avoid the mess, even if contained, of powder going everywhere inside the food processor.

A sprinkle of coconut adds a color and nice crunchy texture

Serve in martini glasses with a healthy sprinkle of shredded coconut if desired. You can also top with a few raspberries, chopped nuts, or maybe some dried banana chips.

Good enough to toast

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