Liquid Gold: A Turmeric Latte
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Although technically it isn’t quite fall yet, the temperatures have changed as well as total daylight. The rains have arrived and with that also the flu. Advertisements for the flu shot are now being blared over grocery store loud speakers and on the radio.
However, I love the fall. For me fall is the season of rejuvenation, a time to focus on health and rehabilitation after a busy and adventurous summer. Everything about it brings a sense of coziness. The crisp air, the rained-out days, and the turning of the leaves. Not to mention scarves and boots and all the fun clothes of the season. The fall temperatures and colors always call my name to run the trails in the foothills of Seattle and afterwards treat myself to a hot latte or cup of tea.
Warm drinks now replace iced drinks. I often hear people proclaim their excitement that Starbucks has once again released its Pumpkin Spice Latte. Oh how we are creatures of habit. So now I will release my latte. It’s spicy, and slightly sweet with the color of gold warming your insides and lifting your soul. However, most notably it will support your health, by boosting your immune system and reducing inflammation. And here is why.
The two powerhouse ingredients are turmeric and ginger which
both have been used in Indian and Chinese medicine for centuries as potent
anti-inflammatory agents.
Turmeric: Its
main component curcumin has been shown to be similar in pain and inflammation
reduction like the popular drugs hydrocortisone and Mortin without the added
side effects. Curcumin has also demonstrated relief for people with all sorts
of disease states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and
Cancer. Also, curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the
brain by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. More recently
curcumin has been studied for potential anti-depressant activity. A 2013 study
of individuals with Major Depressive Disorder concluded the first clinical
evidence that curcumin may be used as a safe and effective treatment.
Ginger: Most
notably known for it carminative effects (promotes release of intestinal gas),
ginger has been used to alleviate GI distress including nausea and vomiting. In
addition, a bioactive component of ginger called 6-gingerol has shown to suppress
pro-inflammatory compounds in joints, cartilage, and the immune system.
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Finally, both ginger and turmeric have a warming effect in
the body by stimulating the heart and enhancing circulation. If your hands and
feet are cold and you cant seem to warm up, a cup will bring you comfort!
Now who wants a cup of liquid gold?? I do!!
Liquid Gold Turmeric
Latte
Makes 1 serving
INGREDIENTS
INGREDIENTS
1 cup fresh cashew or almond milk (regular cow's milk or soy milk will work fine too)
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to your liking)
Pinch of sea salt
Optional:1 tablespoon coconut milk/cream
DIRECTIONS
Note: If you want to
use homemade almond milk click here for how-to directions and skip to step
number 4.
To make cashew milk soak 1 cup raw organic cashews in
water for 30 minutes. Strain
cashews and place into high-speed blender. Add 4 cups filtered water, a tablespoon of either maple
syrup/honey/ or 1 pitted medjool date, and a pinch sea salt. Blend on high for 1 minute. Pour into a glass jar and
store in refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to shake prior to using
because particles will settle.
To make the latte, pour 1 cup fresh milk into a small saucepan. Add turmeric, ginger, vanilla, maple syrup, and sea salt. Whisk together. If you want it extra creamy add the coconut milk as well.
Heat the mixture over medium-high heat. Begin whisking to froth the foam and reduce heat to medium-low when mixture beings to simmer. Try to keep the mixture from boiling. Continue whisking until the foam thickens. The turmeric and ginger also thicken the milk, giving the drink a creamy texture.
Remove from heat and pour into your favorite cup.
Enjoy your Liquid Gold Turmeric Latte! Cheers to your
health!!
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