If you like Chai Tea Lattes like me, you’ll love this full-of-goodness relaxing concoction.

I thought I knew everything.  Apparently this is a thing.  You might have already heard about it. Golden Milk not only tastes good, it also comes with a long list of health benefits (look it up).  My friend Margeaux swears by it and so she made it for us while we were visiting her resort-style home in the Kooteneys because she said it’s the best before-bedtime drink to help promote a peaceful deep sleep. She was right.  I slept like a baby.

I’ve been using up the paste she made for us nightly and when I run out (soon) I’ll be making my own.  Here’s the recipe (which of course, you can modify to suit your taste).

This lightly spiced drink (which is similar in flavor to chai) is packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to a dose of peppery turmeric. A touch of honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the ginger and black pepper add a little heat.

 

 

 

 

 

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk, preferably coconut milk beverage or almond milk
• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
• 1 (1-inch) piece *turmeric, unpeeled, thinly sliced, or 1/2 teaspoon dried turmeric
• 1 (1/2-inch) piece ginger, unpeeled, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon organic honey
• 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
• 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• Ground cinnamon (for serving).  Margeaux went one step further and gave us whole cinnamon sticks to use for swirling – a nice added touch.
• Cardamon (optional)

PREPARATION

Whisk coconut milk, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, honey, coconut oil, peppercorns, and 1 cup water in a small saucepan; bring to a low boil. Reduce heat and simmer until flavors have melded, about 10 minutes and paste begins to thicken. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve.

To drink (per person): to one cup of non dairy beverage, add 1/4 tsp. of turmeric paste & 1 tsp. virgin coconut oil. Warm over medium heat before bedtime for best results. Do not overheat. Pour into a mug. Sprinkle with cinnamon or serve with cinnamon stick.

Do Ahead

Golden milk can be made 5 days ahead. Store in an airtight container and chill. Warm before serving.

Cooks’ Note

Using fresh turmeric adds a clean, bright flavor to this drink, but dried turmeric can be substituted when fresh is not available. Keep in mind that dried turmeric will settle to the bottom of the mug, so stir well before drinking.

Makes 2 cups

*I have used fresh turmeric (which resembles fresh ginger – bought at South China Seas Trading Company, Granville Island) but I have to tell you that every time the skin around my nails turn bright yellow for a little while.  If you don’t want that you’ll have to wear latex gloves.  The powder in my opinion is your best bet.  It is still potent.

Source for Recipe: epicurious.com