LUCUMA – Have you noticed this?

This is a repost from a facebook note I wrote, so if you are on facebook with me, move on…(or re-read)

Now that I have some lucuma, and I have tried it (put it in a blender drink with some fresh strawberries and frozen apricots), I am noticing something today. I am tasting the lucuma, and thinking about the lucuma, and wanting to make something with lucuma.

What is that?

I am not a sweets eater (I’ve had that danged bottle of agave syrup for months, and it is still half full!!!)  So, why am I thinking about lucuma and wanting it?  This is very weird for me.  Yes, I tracked down agave syrup when it first hit the airwaves, although I did not buy it for a while, because I did not see a need.  I finally did buy it, and tested it, and that was that. Yes, it is sweet. Okay, next?

This lucuma interest is more like a drug feeling, is what I am saying. It has been on my mind all day. Has anyone else had a similar experience?  I’m thinking that this is something I should avoid like the plague.  I’m chary of trying it again.

RAW PEPPERMINT PATTIES

PEPPERMINT PATTIES
Based on a recipe by Elaina Love

6 C dry, raw shredded coconut
2/3 C honey or agave syrup
1/2 t. mint extract (or 3 drops peppermint essential oil)
1/8 C organic cocoa powder or raw carob powder (add until mixture reaches desired color)
1/2 t. vanilla extract
pinch cayenne pepper
1/8 t Celtic sea salt

• Blend 3 C of coconut in a dry VitaMix on low speed with the lid off and using a spatula to keep things moving until coconut takes on the consistency of butter. Do not blend so long as to separate all oil from the coconut.(If you don’t have a Vitamix, process 1 – 1/2 C at a time.)
• Remove the coconut to a mixing bowl.
• Add 1/3 C of sweetener and mint extract (or peppermint oil), and mix well with a spatula.  Set aside.
• Blend remaining 3 C coconut
• In a bowl, mix the coconut and remaining ingredients by hand..
• Divide the chocolate mixture in half.. Press one half into a 4″ x 4″ baking dish or plastic container.. Freeze  for 5 minutes,  until solid.
• Remove frozen chocolate from freezer and layer on the mint mixture. Return to freezer for 4 – 5 minutes.
• Spread remaining chocolate mixture over the mint layer. Freeze until solid or refrigerate.
• Remove container from the freezer and remove the contents by twisting the container, or by prying up with a spatula.
• Place on a cutting board and, using a thin, sharp knife, cut into your shape of choice.

Refrigerate.