We’re passionate about smoothies but we also love our fair share of warming & healing drinks, especially in the fall and winter. An absolute favorite this time of year is Golden Milk, a warming non-dairy latte featuring turmeric. We’ve elevated the traditional Golden Milk recipe so read on to learn a little more about the medicinal effects of this delicious drink. It really is heaven in a mug!
Why turmeric?
Turmeric, known as the Queen of the Herbs, is a close relative to ginger. It’s a powerful herb with a golden hue and a punchy, pepper-like taste that is often used as a base in most curry dishes. Turmeric has tremendous anti-inflammatory effects on the body and an extremely high nutrient content making it yet another important antioxidant rich spice to introduce to your body (regularly)!
It’s fantastic for glowing skin and equally as powerful for detoxifying the liver. But it’s important to remember to pair turmeric with a hint of black pepper as this will allow the curcumin, a chemical compound within turmeric, to work it’s magic. Read: Why We Love Turmeric in Smoothies
Why chai?
There are thousands of chai recipes, many of which come from India, but the basic components of chai include black tea, cinnamon, ginger, clove, cardamom and black pepper. While each of these ingredients has its own powerful health benefits, their synergy creates a potent tea that helps support digestion, prevent cancer, lower blood sugar and promote cardiovascular health. We love this Turmeric Chai that already includes black pepper and cayenne within the blend. Click HERE
SPICY TURMERIC CHAI LATTE
This recipe takes Golden Milk to another level in my book. It’s not only high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and healthy fats (thank you coconut oil) but is also high in manganese and iron.
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup coconut milk or almond milk
2 tsp coconut oil
3 TBSP turmeric chai blend
OR (if not using turmeric chai blend)
2 TBSP black tea
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 TBSP cardamom pods
1 TBSP dried ginger root
½ tsp black peppercorns
4 cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
pinch cayenne
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a saucepan and heat to a low boil.
- Reduce the heat and allow to simmer gently, partially covered, for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain out the herbs.
- Add raw honey or coconut sugar to taste. Coconut sugar is a lower glycemic option. Enjoy warm!
