My experiments with “green” smoothies have led me to that happy marriage of beetroot and chocolate, but with a little twist inspired by Sumayya Jamil who recently wrote about her Chilli Chocolate Lassi with Mint and Rose Petals.

What caught my eye was the inclusion of cumin seeds and mint, so I decided to try the two with beetroot, spinach and banana. This might be my most favourite “green” smoothie to date:

• 1/2 large banana (~75g)
• 1 small beetroot, boiled (~60g)
• 30g spinach
• 1 heaped tsp cocoa powder (or more to taste)
• 4 large ice cubes
• a few mint leaves
• a few cumin seeds
• a pinch of cayenne pepper
• pinch of salt

Blitz until silky smooth, adding as much water as necessary.