Well, September and the fall colors are upon us. This means Pumpkin Spice everything is in the air! Going with that theme, we thought we’d bring you a warm, comforting beverage to enjoy on these cooler fall evenings. Golden Milk is a hot Indian drink that is typically enjoyed in the evening prior to sleep (or at least that is the way I drink it, since it makes me sleepy!).
Health Benefits
It has many beneficial properties based on the ingredients it contains. Turmeric, ginger and cinnamon are some of the included spices, all of which have powerful antiinflammatory properties. This can help to lessen joint pain. It may also help to preserve memory and reduce the deterioration of brain function from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. These spices also have antibacterial and antiviral properties which may protect the body from infections and strengthen immune function.
Ginger and Turmeric can help to alleviate indigestion. Almonds and oats contain magnesium, which is helpful in relaxing muscles and inducing sleep. Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, a compound that can help to strengthen the immune system. It is also high in antioxidants, great for protecting against cellular damage. The potassium, vitamin C and fiber in pumpkin is also beneficial for heart health.
So, let’s brew a cup of this wonderful, warming and relaxing beverage, shall we? The ingredients are all pretty common in any spice collection. Black pepper is used to help increase the absorption of the turmeric. Plant-based milk is widely available these days, and easy to make from scratch. A can of pumpkin purée and some vanilla will round out these ingredients nicely. If you prefer your golden milk to be a little more sweet, you can add some dates to sweeten it up, so no sugar is necessary.
Ingredients:
2 cups almond or oat milk (or any other plant-based milk you enjoy)
2 TBSP Pumpkin Puree
1/2 tsp Turmeric
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
Pinch of Black Pepper
¼ tsp ground Ginger
½ tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
1 tsp vanilla
2-4 dates (optional)
Instructions:
Warm milk to desired temperature, either on the stove or with a quick zap in the microwave.
Add all ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour into a pair of mugs and enjoy with a pinch of turmeric or cinnamon on top, if desired.
Hope you try this and enjoy as the fall weather rolls in. I’ve already been enjoying a cup in the evening to help me drift off to a peaceful slumber. Let us know what you think, and what you’ve topped your drink with!
