Golden Milk…
Aside from Cacao, this has to be one of my favourite health drinks.
How to Make Turmeric Milk, Plus Health Benefits.
A classic, comforting, warm, boldly spiced turmeric milk recipe with a hint of sweetness.
If you haven’t heard of or tried turmeric milk (haldi doodh) before, you’re in for a treat.
Turmeric contains an array of nutrients. It’s particularly high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It has a warm, slightly spicy, bold, earthy flavor. When mixed with a hint of sweetness you’re left with a delicious combination for a warming drink!
WHAT IS TURMERIC MILK?
Traditionally, turmeric milk (haldi doodh) comes from Ayurvedic practices and is prevalent in Indian culture and cuisines.
In its simplest form, it’s a combination of warm milk and turmeric. Most traditional recipes will combine the turmeric with whole cow’s milk, but with our spin on this delicious original, you can substitute with any milk that suits your lifestyle best. Whether that be unsweetened almond milk, cashew milk, oat milk or any other milk you enjoy!
You can also add additional components such as herbs, spices, and sweeteners to enhance the taste as well as the nutrient density after it’s been warmed through.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC MILK
This particular turmeric milk recipe is a good source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, healthy fats, manganese and iron. The ingredients actually work together in a synergistic fashion to help enhance the nutritional value of one another.
Turmeric itself has also been known to be a “healing spice” and has been used to help many ailments.
From sore throats, colds, and the flu to wound healing and the treatment of abrasions (due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties).
HOW TO USE TURMERIC MILK
Most of us have heard at least one time or another that drinking warm milk before bed will help us fall asleep. Scientifically speaking, this theory stems from the fact that there is tryptophan present in milk
But don’t think that it has to be had at night! It can also be used as a great morning latte to jump-start your day with nutrients or after a meal to curb sweet cravings .
Antioxidants
The compound in turmeric that gives it its yellow hue is called curcumin, and this compound carries high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Powerful antioxidants like this can reduce the risk of diseases, including cancer.
Anti-Inflammatory
One of turmeric’s most well-known and studied properties is its effects on inflammation. It’s been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which could help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases—and these properties also come from the curcumin compound.
Manganese
Manganese, a mineral that also offers anti-inflammatory benefits, will also help to protect your bones and fight off osteoporosis. It also helps in the formation of connective tissue and metabolization of fat and carbs.
Ingredients:
2 cups of plant milk
1 tablespoon local honey, optional (cool milk before adding)
1 tablespoon coconut oil or ghee, optional
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Small pinch of black pepper and freshly grated nutmeg
Directions:
Simply pour all ingredients into a small saucepan and bring to a light boil. Whisk to combine ingredients. Reduce heat to low and simmer for up to 10 minutes.
Strain the milk if you have large pieces of ginger, cinnamon, peppercorns, etc. To serve, add honey or a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Enjoy warm is best!
Subtle variations:
Add 2-3 whole cardamom pods while boiling
Add 2-3 whole black peppercorns
Add 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Add more honey or maple syrup to sweeten
Add vanilla extract to taste
