Turmeric tea, often called “golden milk” when mixed with milk, is one of those drinks that makes you feel cozy and healthy at the same time.
Whether you’re trying to boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, or just enjoy a warm and soothing beverage, turmeric tea is the way to go. Plus, it’s super easy to make at home.
Let’s dive into the world of turmeric and brew up some of this golden goodness.
What’s the Big Deal About Turmeric?
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that’s been used for centuries in Indian and Southeast Asian cooking. It’s the main ingredient in curry powder and is known for its earthy, slightly bitter flavor. But beyond its culinary uses, turmeric has been prized in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda, for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The magic ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is what gives it its vibrant color and health benefits.
Why Drink Turmeric Tea?
If you’re not a fan of popping supplements or just want a more natural way to boost your health, turmeric tea is a great option. Here are a few reasons why you might want to add this drink to your daily routine:
- Anti-inflammatory benefits: Turmeric is known to reduce inflammation, which is great for anyone dealing with chronic pain, arthritis, or even just the occasional muscle ache.
- Boosts immunity: With its antioxidant properties, turmeric can help strengthen your immune system, which is especially handy during cold and flu season.
- Aids digestion: Turmeric can help with digestion and reduce bloating, making it a great after-dinner drink.
- Supports brain health: Curcumin has been linked to improved brain function and a lower risk of brain diseases.
Now that you’re convinced, let’s get to the good part—how to make turmeric tea.
How to Make Turmeric Tea: The Basic Recipe
Making turmeric tea is as simple as boiling water, but I’ll walk you through the process to make sure it turns out perfect every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (or 1-inch fresh turmeric root, grated)
- 1 cup water
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
- A pinch of black pepper (this helps your body absorb curcumin better)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or ghee (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions:
- Boil the Water: Start by bringing a cup of water to a boil in a small pot or kettle.
- Add the Turmeric: If you’re using turmeric powder, add it directly to the boiling water. If you’re using fresh turmeric, grate it first and then add it in. Stir well to avoid clumps.
- Spice it Up: Add the cinnamon and black pepper. The cinnamon adds a nice flavor, while the black pepper is crucial for helping your body absorb the curcumin. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Lower the heat and let the tea simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the turmeric to fully infuse into the water.
- Strain (if using fresh turmeric): If you used fresh turmeric, strain the tea into your cup to remove the bits of root. If you used powder, you can skip this step.
- Sweeten and Enrich: Stir in honey or maple syrup to taste. If you want a richer, creamier tea, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or ghee.
- Enjoy: Pour your turmeric tea into a mug and enjoy! You can also add a splash of almond or coconut milk if you prefer a creamier texture.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve got the basic recipe down, you can start experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
- Ginger-Turmeric Tea: Add a small piece of fresh ginger to the boiling water along with the turmeric for an extra spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Add a slice of lemon or orange for a bright, citrusy flavor. This is especially refreshing if you’re drinking the tea cold.
- Herbal Mix: Throw in some other herbs like mint or basil for added flavor and health benefits.
Tips for the Best Turmeric Tea
- Use fresh turmeric when possible: Fresh turmeric root has a more vibrant flavor and is less bitter than the powder.
- Don’t skip the black pepper: It’s essential for maximizing the benefits of turmeric.
- Experiment with sweeteners: If you’re avoiding sugar, try sweetening your tea with stevia or a bit of coconut sugar.
- Make a big batch: You can make a larger batch of turmeric tea and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat a cup whenever you want some.
Turmeric Tea Latte Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, like almond, oat, or coconut milk)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (or 1-inch fresh turmeric root, grated)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (or ½ inch fresh ginger, grated)
- 1 pinch of black pepper (helps with the absorption of turmeric)
- 1 teaspoon honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener of your choice
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or ghee (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Let it warm up, but don’t let it come to a full boil.
- Add the Spices: Whisk in the turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. If you’re using fresh turmeric or ginger, add them in now. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and allows the spices to infuse into the milk.
- Sweeten: Stir in the honey or sweetener of your choice. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Add the Fat: For a richer and creamier texture, stir in the coconut oil or ghee. This is optional, but it adds a nice mouthfeel to the latte.
- Strain (Optional): If you used fresh turmeric or ginger, you might want to strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits of root.
- Serve: Pour your turmeric tea latte into a mug. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg on top.
- Enjoy: Sip your golden latte while it’s warm and comforting. It’s perfect for a cozy morning or a relaxing evening ritual.