Turmeric is having a moment. A quick scan of the chilled beverage display at most grocery stores will reveal turmeric kombucha, turmeric elixir, turmeric shots, turmeric chai, turmeric blended juices. This golden root (similar to ginger) is chock-full of healthy compounds and can help with inflammation, improve digestion, and energize your afternoon. Thanks, antioxidants! But turmeric is no superfood newbie: it’s been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and stars in the test kitchen’s favorite cleansing meal kitchari, and that all-day staple the golden latte.
Reach for the fresh variety for this super-simple turmeric tonic. This recipe is courtesy of Chef Camille Becerra of New York City’s De Maria (she features a pineapple turmeric blend that’s out of this world). The good news is that fresh turmeric is showing up at more and more health food stores and Asian markets, so you can make this drink at home.
Be extra careful when using fresh turmeric -- it will stain hands, counters, and containers. I always use glass jars and metal spoons. If you don’t feel like juicing your own, you can also start with fresh turmeric juice (head back to that chilled beverage display) and add fresh lemon juice and honey. That’s the base of the tonic, and this will keep in the refrigerator for several days. Simply spoon a few tablespoons into a large glass filled with ice and top with seltzer water. Sprinkle some cayenne on top for a kick or throw in some fresh ginger for more of a bite. (You can make this tonic using 100 percent ginger juice, but you’ll need to up the honey for balance.)
Next time you’re looking for a boost, skip the coffee and go for the gold instead!
Tune in every Sunday for a new Healthy Appetite video from Shira Bocar.
Watch Shira make Turmeric Tonic -- then make your own golden juice: