Turmeric Latte

 

Growing up I was one of those kid’s who always would get sick from tonsillitis. My mom along with antibiotics would make me drink this tea which I absolutely hated. Little did I know it was a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and had a host of benefits. It tasted bad at that time and I would gag, but mama knows best and I thank her for that and many natural healing remedies.
Case-in point: Turmeric is a magical herb/root when it comes to health benefits. Turmeric has been used for ages in Ayerveda and everyday cooking.

• Its a  powerful antimicrobial known to heal everything from acne to peptic ulcers by inhibiting H. pyloric bacteria.
• It acts a powerful anti-inflammatory, reduces swelling in joints, Rheumatoid arthritis and even chronic pain. It also improves cognitive health and Alzheimer’s by protecting against cognitive impairment.

Night Cap: drinking milk before bedtime is or was common practice to help sleep better as it’s soothing, helps wind down. Personally it also refrains me from reaching for those late night snacks. Turmeric latte should be and can be enjoyed any time of the day or not limited to nighttime. I like it late afternoon when I feel an urge for a coffee, It’s a good caffeine free option.

Getting used to turmeric: Turmeric has a mild orange- ginger like taste, slightly bitter with astringent flavors.  It takes some getting used to, I recommend starting with 1/8 of a teaspoon of ground turmeric for a cup or two and increase as you get used to its taste. Also if you want a lighter drink it can be made with water or half water-half milk or for a rich drink all milk. I prefer unsweetened plant milk; it’s better for the gut, much less sugars than cows milk and dairy-free. Adjust the spice to your preference, up or down and build up as you get used to the taste of turmeric. Seriously turmeric latte or tea is delicious.

 

Turmeric Latte

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened plant milk or any milk you regularly use
• 1 cup water or if you like it creamier replace water with another cup of plant milk
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger ( I like strong ginger flavor)**
• 1/2 tablespoon sweetener: local honey or maple syrup (if you need the latte sweet)
• 1/8 – 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric** ( for first timers to experienced turmeric user)
• 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2’teaspoon ground cinnamon**
• small pinch of ground black pepper ( it helps with absorption of curcumin in turmeric)

** notice I give a range, start with a little and increase as needed

Instructions 

1. Place all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, whisk to combine ingredients.
2. Reduce heat to a bare simmer for up to 10 minutes for the flavors to infuse and intensify.
3. Strain the milk.
4. Serve hot or warm sweetened ( optional) and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
5. The star anise is not in the drink, I used it as a pretty garnish.