Golden Milk Recipe: Warm Up Your Soul with This Ancient Comfort Drink
Warm up with golden milk! This ancient turmeric latte recipe is easy, comforting, and packed with health benefits. Perfect for a cozy bedtime drink.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk dairy or plant-based like almond or oat
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder or 1 inch fresh turmeric, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger or 1/2 inch fresh ginger, grated
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup or to taste
- Optional: Pinch of cardamom or nutmeg splash of vanilla extract
Instructions
Combine Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, pour in the milk. Add the turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper.
Simmer:
- Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the milk is warm and fragrant, about 5-10 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Strain (Optional):
- If you used fresh spices or prefer a smoother texture, strain the golden milk through a fine-mesh sieve into your mug.
Sweeten and Serve:
- Stir in honey or maple syrup to your desired sweetness. Add vanilla, cardamom, or nutmeg if using.
Enjoy:
- Serve hot for a comforting drink. For iced golden milk, cool completely and pour over ice.
Notes
- Spice Paste for Convenience: For a quicker morning routine, create a spice paste in advance. Mix 2 tablespoons of turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper with ¼ cup of water to form a thick paste. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use 1-2 teaspoons of this paste per cup of milk.
- Milk Frothing Tip: For an extra creamy and latte-like texture, use a milk frother after heating your golden milk. This creates a wonderful, velvety drink.
- Adjust Sweetness: Start with 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup per serving and adjust to your preference. You can also use other natural sweeteners like dates or agave.
- Spice it Up or Tone it Down: Modify the spice levels to suit your taste. Add more ginger for a spicier kick, or reduce the amount of turmeric for a milder flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a pleasant warmth for those who enjoy a spicy golden milk.
- Vegan Variations: Ensure your golden milk is vegan by using plant-based milk alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. Check that your sweetener (if using) is also vegan-friendly (maple syrup, agave, or date syrup are good options).
- Serving Suggestions: Golden milk is traditionally served hot, especially before bed to promote relaxation. However, it's also delicious chilled over ice for a refreshing summer drink. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a star anise, or a dusting of turmeric powder for an elegant touch.
- Fresh vs. Powdered Spices: Fresh turmeric and ginger root offer a more vibrant and potent flavor, but powdered spices are convenient and work perfectly well for daily use. If using fresh roots, remember to peel and grate them finely before simmering.
- Storage for Leftovers: Leftover golden milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain its texture and flavor. Avoid re-boiling.
- Health Considerations: While golden milk is often associated with health benefits due to turmeric, it is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. If you have any health concerns, consult with a healthcare professional.