Golden Milk (Turmeric Tea)
Golden milk is a delicious way to drink in all of the benefits of turmeric—and it isn’t complicated! In its simplest state, it’s just warmed milk with turmeric. Add a dash of black pepper, which helps your body absorb the antioxidants, and sweeten with a drizzle of honey, if you wish. You can layer on flavor by adding thin slices of fresh ginger, a stick of cinnamon, or a few pods of cardamom.
You can use almond milk if you’re dodging dairy, but traditional chai and magic tea rely on cow’s milk, and why argue with grandmothers? If you’re using nonfat milk, a drizzle of coconut oil will also help with the absorption of the fat-soluble antioxidant. But if you’re going for a low-fat milk, which already has a bit of fat, skip the coconut oil—there’s no need for the extra calories or saturated fat. Here’s the basic method to get you brewing.
Ingredients
1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) low-fat milk
1 inch (2.5 cm) fresh turmeric, thinly sliced (or ½ teaspoon ground turmeric)
Freshly ground black pepper
Honey (optional)
Instructions
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, warm the milk until hot but not boiling, just until bubbles start to form at the edge of the pan. Add the turmeric and pepper, reduce the heat to low, and simmer to let the flavors steep, at least 10 minutes. Taste and stir in a little honey to sweeten, if you like. Strain into a mug and serve warm.
Makes 1 serving
Updated September 7, 2016: Article has been edited to note that both pepper and fat help your body absorb the antioxidants found in turmeric.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
Becky Duffett
Becky Duffett is a contributing nutrition editor for Fitbit and a lifestyle writer with a passion for eating well. A former Williams-Sonoma cookbook editor and graduate of San Francisco Cooking School, she’s edited dozens of cookbooks and countless recipes. City living has turned her into a spin addict—but she’d still rather be riding a horse. She lives in the cutest neighborhood in San Francisco, spending weekends at the farmers’ market, trying to read at the bakery, and roasting big dinners for friends.
Thanks for the recipe! I was under the impression that you needed some fat to aid in your bodies absorption of the turmeric, which is why vegans add the coconut oil to their nut-based milk, or use a nut-based milk with some fat in it. How about hemp?! Yummie and creamy!
For us our health is the primary concern. Turmeric tea is best source for it, As it contains so many health benefits.Thank you for sharing the recipe of magical turmeric tea, its so easy,healthy & delicious.
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful drink that is not only tasty but also wholesome for our body & mind. its so much easy to make, looks so delicious. I liked it so much!