Today is the winter solstice. So….what better time to jot down some of my favourite winter elixirs than now.
Soon we will be able to welcome the slow return of the light. But for now there are still a few more chilly evenings and cool days to be had.
Before this winter I had never really looked into turmeric root that much, and wow is it incredible. It’s healing properties are seriously powerful! This yellow spice is well worth a stained yellow drawer of mugs, saucepans and kitchen utensils.
After a bit of research I discovered many suggestions to combine your turmeric with black pepper to increase the absorption in the body. This adds extra spice and taste.
Turmeric root has been used for thousands of years and has been known to aid in:
- Warding off Alzheimer’s disease.
- Preventing cancer.
- Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Combatting inflammation.
- Fighting cold and flu.
- Reducing indigestion and aiding weight loss.
- Assisting diabetes sufferers.
These three easy recipes have been on high rotation in my house this past month as winter has really set in down here on the coast. They are surprisingly delicious, creamy and satisfying (not to mention incredibly warming).
In all of these recipes I have used almond milk, however, all nut milks will work just as well. If you are after a nut free option coconut milk would be delicious too.
PEPPERED GOLDEN MILK
small piece turmeric root, grated (or 1 teaspoon powder)
1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper
1 cup plant-based milk of choice
coconut nectar or organic maple syrup, to taste
TUMERIC & GINGER LATTE
small piece turmeric root, grated (or 1 teaspoon powder)
small piece ginger root, grated
pinch cracked pepper
1 cup plant-based milk of choice
coconut nectar or organic maple syrup, to taste
SPICED CHAI & TUMERIC ELIXIR
small piece turmeric root, grated (or 1 teaspoon powder)
2 teaspoons caffeine free loose leaf chai
pinch cracked pepper
1 cup plant-based milk of choice
coconut nectar or organic maple syrup, to taste
Bring 1 cup of water to the boil and reduce to a simmer. Add all spices and tea and allow to simmer for up to 5 minutes. Add your cup of plant-based milk and return to the boil, reducing to a simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain into a mug and stir in sweetener of choice. Enjoy!
X Harry