Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice of antiquity, with a history of use dating back thousands of years. In fact, there is archeological evidence that this member of the ginger family was used in cooking as long ago as 2500 BCE in India. In Medieval Europe, turmeric was referred to as Indian saffron because it was a cheaper alternative to saffron threads.
The spice is considered sacred in India, perhaps because its vibrant color is associated with fertility and the sacral chakra, the energy channel located just below the navel in the human body. To this day, turmeric plays a key role in traditional wedding ceremonies and in Hindu spiritual observations.
This ancient Ayurvedic formula is enjoyed all over the world today, but has been a part of daily life throughout Asia for centuries. The occupants of the Japanese island of Okinawa, for instance, who are reputed to live exceptionally long lives, regularly partake of golden milk.
Also known as Haldi Ka Doodh, golden milk is generally a simple-to-make concoction that usually consists of just a few ingredients. However, many households have their own unique recipes that are passed from one generation to the next. Turmeric remains the star ingredient, followed by a variety of spices and herbs. Black pepper is the most common accompaniment, not only for flavor but because it contains an enzyme called piperine that increases absorption of turmeric. Other ingredients found in golden milk may include ginger, cardamom, dates, cinnamon, vanilla, cayenne, and ashwagandha.
Remember our long-living friends in Okinawa? Turmeric tea is so much a part of daily life there that it is available canned and in instant powdered form in just about any local shop. Many people make up their own version of the latter in batches so it’s ready to steep in warm milk or hot water when needed.
Coffee fans will appreciate the eye-opening flavors of turmeric and cinnamon in their morning brew. These two spices not only complement each other flavor-wise, but also serve up a generous supply of antioxidants. Just add ½ teaspoon of each spice to the ground coffee in the brew basket. Then whisk your spiced coffee with almond or coconut milk, and you can start your day with a rich and creamy turmeric latte.
Tonics and smoothies fortified with turmeric offer another flavorful and nutritious way to prepare for the day ahead, or a boost when you feel your energy lagging in the afternoon.
Suitable pairings to enhance your tonic and smoothie recipes are considerably varied. Orange, lemon, melon, pineapple, mango and strawberries are excellent choices in the fruit category, while goji berries, chia seeds (in very small amounts), ground flax seeds, kale and other “superfoods” round out the beverage with additional antioxidants and nutrients. Matcha tea and even chocolate (or carob) are good choices. Experimentation is encouraged!
turmeric tea mix recipe Keep this mixture in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid in a cool dark place. Ready when you want it! Gather these: turmeric, cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground black pepper. GET THE RECIPE >
sweet and creamy turmeric latte recipe Be sure to use full-fat coconut milk in this recipe for best results. Alternatively, you can use almond milk. The brew will be just as tasty, but not as creamy. Gather these: turmeric, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom. GET THE RECIPE >
turmeric tonic with ginger & lemon recipe Loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, this tasty tonic is a great way to start the day or the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Gather these: turmeric, and ground ginger. GET THE RECIPE >
berry citrus turmeric smoothie recipe Turmeric and orange juice add tang while strawberries and goji berries provide sweetness and a bit of texture. Gather these: turmeric, goji berries, and ground ginger. GET THE RECIPE >
