To make soothing haldi doodh, warm milk with turmeric powder, ginger, and black pepper. Add honey or maple syrup to taste for added sweetness and benefits.
Haldi doodh, or turmeric milk, is a traditional Indian drink known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Here's how to make it:
Gather your ingredients: You'll need 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy), 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, a small piece of grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder), a pinch of black pepper, and sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, or sugar).
Warm the milk: Gently heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Avoid boiling it.
Add spices: Stir in the turmeric powder, ginger, and black pepper. The black pepper is crucial as it enhances the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the turmeric to fully dissolve.
Sweeten and serve: Remove from heat and stir in your preferred sweetener to taste. Pour into a mug and enjoy warm.
For an extra boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for flavor and additional health benefits. You can also add a teaspoon of coconut oil or ghee for a creamier texture and to further aid in curcumin absorption.