There are so many good things to say about turmeric (traditionally called Indian Saffron). And they include a plethora of health benefits.
It’s another thing to find ways to use this super food in real life. I find that adding powdered or ground turmeric root to cooked dishes has its limitations. It’s one of those flavours where it’s easy to overdo and there’s no way to un-do too much of the flavour if you happen to go overboard.
From a nutritional standpoint, its far better to consume the turmeric (which has the active ingredient of curcumin, that’s so beneficial) than take a capsule form because of it’s bio-availability, not to mention freshness. That means you have to add it to foods and find creative ways to use it in recipes.
One of the best and easiest ways I’ve found to enjoy ground turmeric is in a latte or golden milk if you want to get technical. I’m sure you’ve heard about golden milk. The name comes from the deep yellow colour of turmeric when mixed with milk.
I understand that this concept and recipe originates from Ayruvedic medicine, which is the oldest holistic system of traditional health care, both preventive and curative, that is still widely practiced in the East today. Ayruveda is the sister science to Yoga.
I think you’ll find the drink is very soothing, spicy and soooo delicious and we haven’t even talked about the health benefits yet. I’ll get to that, but in the meantime, mix yourself a latte and sip it while you read the rest of this.
What you need
1 tsp ground turmeric powder
1 pinch of ground black pepper (active ingredient berberine helps the absorption of curcumin)
1 cup of healthy milk alternative (coconut, almond, cashew, macadamia, hemp, etc) original recipe uses whole raw milk, but virtually impossible to find unprocessed milk today
1 tsp of healthy fat (coconut oil, coconut milk, ghee helps with the absorption as well – this fat was in the original recipe found in cow’s milk)
Optional but beneficial spices for added flavour – I use ground ginger, cinnamon and ground cardamon, but vanilla is a nice compliment too
A healthy sweetener to taste, if needed (honey, maple syrup, stevia, monk fruit, etc) I find sometimes the milk and the spices are sweet enough, but feel free to add some to your liking
What you do
Blend all ingredients together and warm on stove top in sauce pan and serve in your favourite mug
OR
Lazy or efficient way depending on how you look at it – I combine all the ground spices together and make a large batch and store mixed spices (masala) in airtight container to use when needed. I warm the milk on the stove top when I’m ready for a latte and add 1.5 tsp of the turmeric spice mix to the cup first, then use my little metal battery operated frother thingy (that’s a technical term) to blend right in my cup. This way can also be blended as above – just be cautious when blending hot liquids.
OR
You can enjoy this drink cold – yes it’s just as yummy but you definitely will benefit from blending it to avoid clumpy from the spices.
Health Benefits of Curcumin/Turmeric
Turmeric is loaded with essential minerals, like magnesium, potassium and calcium.
Is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin B6 and zinc, and contains healthy amounts of vitamin C and phytonutrients.
It’s known for:
- anti-inflammatory properties
- relief of joint pain and joint swelling
- help with bloating, stomach pain, heartburn
- aiding in liver problems and supports enzyme production
- aids with fatigue and loss of appetite
- has skin improving qualities
- helps with diarrhea
It will also likely make you radiant and beautiful as you glow its natural colour. What can’t think stuff do?
Fun fact
Turmeric has been used throughout history as a condiment and a textile dye as well as being superstar health remedy for various ailments.