When I was first introduced to this recipe in my yoga training in Asheville, NC, the name made me titter. "Golden milk" made me think of something that would be discussed on Sex and the City, not something that you'd consider preparing as a health-friendly potable.
However, since I was in yoga training, I did my best to not crack up and instead bowed my hands in prayer, said "Om nom namaste", and drank the stuff up.
Debatable name aside, I highly suggest imbibing this golden milk. Because while yes, it is healthy, the primary fact is that it is delicious.
This recipe starts by making a "tea" of turmeric boiled in water to release its flavor; then, you add milk (I used whole milk, but you can use whatever type you like, dairy or not) and sweeten it with honey to taste.
Since it's used quite sparingly, the turmeric is not overpowering--it's quite subtle, making the milk taste just a little mysterious with an unusual but pleasant nutty-spicy flavor. The honey works beautifully with this fascinating flavor, but if you prefer to omit you can; the natural sweetness of the milk will be enough for some drinkers.
I should probably tell you that it's not just a delicious beverage--it also does boast some health benefits. Turns out, turmeric is super-super good for you, with a bevy of benefits including the one that fascinates me most: It helps reduce brain plaque. I don't want brain plaque, do you?
So, go ahead. Whether you want a tasty thing to drink or want to reduce brain plaque, or BOTH, enjoy this easy and accessible yoga-people recipe that non-yogis can enjoy, too.
Golden milk
This recipe was given to me from one of my yoga teachers, who uses a recipe from Siri Ved Kaur Khalsa's book From Vegetables With Love. I made some adaptations to the recipe to simplify and suit it to my taste. I love warm milk, so I like it served hot, but if you prefer it chilled, that is fine too.
Makes 1 serving (can be doubled, tripled, etc)
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (original recipe calls for 1/8 but I found 1/4 was really not too much)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup milk (whatever kind you like)
- honey, to taste
Procedure
- In a saucepan, bring the turmeric and water to a boil. Reduce to a simmer; let simmer for 8 minutes.
- Add the milk, and continue heating until the milk is as warm as you'd like. Add honey to taste.
- Serve warm.
