Golden milk
This is a Winter favourite of mine, a must-have in the culinary first aid kit, or just any time I desperately need a warming cup of comfort.
Turmeric is the star of this winter drink - prized in Ayurvedic medicine, it contains curcumin, with potent anti-inflammatory properties that helps rev up antioxidant genes in the body and acts as a natural pain reliever and nootropic. Piperine, from black pepper is essential to fully reap the benefits of curcumin, increasing its bioavailability.
Ginger has soothing properties in the gastrointestinal tract whilst also being antiviral and antifungal, cinnamon helps balance blood glucose levels, whilst honey is antibacterial.
Ingredients
500ml milk of choice (I prefer to use unsweetened oat milk)
1 tsp ground turmeric (or 1 tsp grated fresh)
1/2 tsp ground ginger (or 2 tsp grated fresh)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp cold-pressed coconut oil
1/2 tsp freshly grated orange zest (optional)
freshly cracked black pepper (be generous!)
Cold-extracted honey to sweeten ( maple or rice malt syrup are good vegan alternatives)
Add all ingredients (except honey) to a small pan and simmer over low heat for at least 10 minutes, whisking occasionally. Remove from heat, allow to cool for a couple of minutes. Add honey to sweeten, then strain into mugs to serve. Makes 2 cups.
