A taste of fall

Turmeric gives it the distinct yellow color.

I've read about the health benefits of turmeric and recently decided to try making a "turmeric latte." I wanted to keep the carbs low, so liked that the only sweetener in this recipe was honey. The honey we use is local and raw, which adds to the health benefits of this delicious beverage.

I've made two batches so far and have to say I'm a big fan! The ingredients (listed below) are pretty simple and all good for you. The recipe I found came from a blog post, which included the health benefits of some of the ingredients. I thought I'd add the two they left out:

Nutmeg: a spice used to treat intestinal issues, pain and if taken in large doses, is apparently a hallucinogenic (always wise to do a little research). It is also anti-bacteria and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Cardamon: a spice that contains chemicals that might kill some bacteria, reduce swelling, and help the immune system. It's used to treat heartburn, indigestion, headaches and high blood pressure.

The other spices in it are cinnamon and turmeric (go figure, right?). All of these spices speak of fall, which makes it a perfect choice for a drinking on a cool evening, listening to the rustle of leaves, surrounded by pumpkin everything. :)

24k Gold Vanilla Turmeric Latte

Creamy turmeric latte with hints of vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom. It’ll make you feel like pure 24k gold.

Ground Turmeric: This golden yellow spice has been known to contain anti inflammatory properties, which means it’s wonderful post workout to soothe muscle pain & help recovery, and also amazing for those who suffer from arthritis.

Honey: A natural sweetener which is known to ease a sore throat + it also contains antibacterial properties. I LOVE manuka honey from New Zealand.

Cinnamon: This spice has been known to help regulate blood sugar levels + it contains plenty of antioxidants. There’s also something incredibly special about cinnamon simmering away on your stovetop.

Coconut milk + almond milk: I like to use a mixture of almond milk and coconut milk in my turmeric lattes to keep them creamy, sweet and full of natural delicious flavor.

Pure Vanilla Extract: You can use vanilla almond milk and add an extra splash of vanilla extract in your latte if you love vanilla as much as I do!

Creamy turmeric latte with hints of vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom. It’ll make you feel like pure 24k gold.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (15 oz) can coconut milk (can use light coconut milk, but flavor won’t be as rich)
• 1 cup vanilla almond milk (can also use unsweetened almond milk)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½-1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, to sweeten
• 1 teaspoon McCormick ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon McCormick ground cinnamon
• Pinch of McCormick ground nutmeg
• Pinch of McCormick cardamom
• Extra ground cinnamon, for sprinkling on top

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a small pot, add coconut milk, almond milk, vanilla, honey, ground turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom. Whisk together and bring ingredients to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes to reduce the mixture a bit; stirring occasionally.
2. Pour into 2 small mugs, then sprinkle with a little ground cinnamon on top, or add a cinnamon stick. Enjoy!

NOTES

Add a pinch of black pepper and coconut oil for optimum anti-inflammatory benefits.

Katie's Notes:
- If you like cinnamon, use at least a teaspoon. I probably used half a teaspoon the first time and could barely taste it. I used over a teaspoon the second time and it was perfect (for me...but I really like cinnamon).
- I don't like almond milk, so I used Vitamin D milk instead.
- The flavor is a bit earthy, so I used a whole teaspoon of honey when making it and then added little more once I poured some in a mug.
- When I make a batch, I pour a small mug to drink warm and have been saving the rest to use instead of cream in my coffee every morning. One batch lasts me about a week.



Enjoy and happy fall!



~ Katie Q.

P.S.* Only mildly related - I feel the need to point out that in my quest to eat better, I have yet to order/drink a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Not one! I got a pumpkin smoothie with espresso at Scooters last month because I was making a 4 hour drive...but otherwise NOT ONE! If you know me at all, you'll realize that is unheard of! I'm usually waiting in line the first day they are available! I plan to get one sometime this season, but the longer I can put it off, the fewer I'll end up ordering (once that pumpkin ball starts rolling, I doubt I'll be able to stop it). One Salted Caramel Pumpkin Concrete Mixer from Culvers is also a yearly/seasonal requirement. They're so darn good!


* Pumpkin Secret...not Post Script. 😉