Turmeric Latte - The Wonders of the Magic Spice in a Mug

Comforting! Silky! Nourishing! That's turmeric latte, the new kid on the block, in the world of matchas and green teas.

Turmeric latte is also known as 'turmeric milk' or 'golden milk'. It is the latest health drink that is creating a buzz in the Western and European countries.

This fantastic concoction is prepared using turmeric, the queen of the protective spices and is full of antioxidants.

In a classic illustration of east meets the west, this healthy drink is a nostalgic trip down the memory lane for many as it conjures up vivid memories of our mothers and grandmothers cajoling us to have ‘haldi-wala-doodh’ when we got hurt or had a cough and cold.

The wonders of this magical golden spice have been written down in Indian history for centuries and have now permeated across the world with the likes of turmeric latte.

Turmeric is a superstar spice. Its contribution to enhancing the flavour of Indian food is well known and its medicinal benefits have helped mankind for centuries. It contains the therapeutic bioactive compound, curcumin, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has a positive effect on a multitude of enzymes in the body and helps promote wellness.

Turmeric milk is an elixir that brings together all the above benefits of turmeric in a steaming cup of good health and has traditionally been consumed hot in India. Similarly, turmeric latte also follows the same method of preparation, with small tweaks here and is consumed hot. In contrast, the 'Iced Turmeric Latte' gives that interesting twist to the drink and as the name suggests, it is served cold.

There are many versions of turmeric latte doing the rounds. Here are the tried and tested ones.

Recipes for hot & iced turmeric lattes

Hot turmeric latte

Whip up this warming and nutritious drink using turmeric and two more wonder spices, ginger, and cinnamon. Using plain milk is ideal for making this drink, but you can also use water. Furthermore, you can also replace plain milk with coconut or almond milk.

Fresh turmeric, around 2 inches pieces or 1 tsp. turmeric powder

Fresh ginger, around 1-inch piece, or 1/2 tsp. ginger powder

A pinch of black pepper

1 tbsp. honey or 1 tsp. sugar or natural sweetener

1 cup milk (plain, almond, coconut)

1/2 tsp. cinnamon powder

1/2 tsp. vanilla essence (optional)

Put all the ingredients in a pan over heat and whisk them while bringing to a boil. Lower the heat once it starts to boil and allow it to simmer for 4-5 minutes. The slow simmer will help thicken the mixture and make it smooth and silky. Finally, pour in mugs and sprinkle some more cinnamon for that extra flavour and serve.

Iced turmeric latte

The ingredients used are the same as those for hot turmeric latte. Just the method of making the latte varies.

Put all the ingredients in a mixer, add lots of ice and blend until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Lastly, pour into tall glasses and enjoy.

Creamy and uplifting, the hot turmeric latte is a perfect health drink for autumn and winter. The iced version of the latte, on the other hand, is popular during the summers.

Tips

Black pepper helps in the absorption of curcumin in the body which in turn enhances its healing powers. Studies show that consuming curcumin with black pepper makes it three times more powerful!

It is more beneficial to heat the concoction as heating activates the curcumin in the latte. Therefore, even when making iced turmeric latte, it's healthier to first make the hot latte version and then cool it by adding ice or keeping in the refrigerator.

How does turmeric latte, as a health drink, boosts our system?

The wondrous golden milk is great for a good night sleep as it lowers the blood sugar levels and helps to detoxify the liver. Furthermore, it also soothes the tired muscles, relaxes the mind and eases the digestive system. As a result, one sleeps soundly and wakes up feeling rested and refreshed.

A good digestive system is critical to losing weight. Turmeric milk helps in easing stomach disorders like flatulence, bloating and acid reflux which results in improving the digestive system.

A cup of turmeric milk taken at bedtime provides relief from coughing and ensures a restful night.

Turmeric latte is an ideal drink to have in the event of an injury as it helps the body fight against infections.

Go ahead, get yourself a warm and nourishing cup of turmeric latte and allow the magic of the wonder root to take you to all places healthy.