Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Golden Milk Recipe – Turmeric, Ginger & Cinnamon Bliss

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – sometimes you just need a hug in a mug, right? That’s exactly what this Golden Milk, or Haldi Doodh as my grandmother called it, is. I first stumbled upon this recipe properly when I was feeling a bit under the weather a few years ago, and honestly, it’s been a staple ever since. It’s warm, comforting, and tastes like a little bit of sunshine. Plus, it’s packed with goodness! Let’s get brewing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a drink; it’s a little ritual. Golden Milk is incredibly easy to make – seriously, it takes just a few minutes. It’s wonderfully soothing, especially on a chilly evening or when you’re feeling a bit run down. And the flavour? A beautiful blend of earthy turmeric, warming ginger, and sweet cinnamon. It’s a hug in a mug, I promise!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this golden goodness:

• 1 cup milk (about 240ml)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (about 2.5g)
• 5cm piece of ginger, chopped
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons honey (or to taste)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Turmeric: Varieties & Health Benefits

Turmeric is the star of the show! You can use fresh turmeric root (about 1 inch, grated) if you have it – it gives a lovely vibrant colour. Otherwise, good quality turmeric powder works perfectly. Turmeric is renowned in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory properties, and it’s a powerful antioxidant too.

Ginger: Fresh vs. Ground & Regional Uses

Fresh ginger is always best here, in my opinion. It adds a lovely zing! If you’re in a pinch, you can use about ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, but it won’t be quite the same. In some parts of India, especially during monsoon season, people add a tiny bit of crushed garlic along with the ginger for an extra immunity boost.

Black Pepper: Why It’s Essential

Don’t skip the black pepper! It might seem odd, but it dramatically increases the bioavailability of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric. Basically, it helps your body absorb all those wonderful benefits.

Cinnamon: Ceylon vs. Cassia

You can use either Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon. Cassia is more common and has a stronger flavour, while Ceylon is milder and more delicate. I usually use Cassia for a bolder taste.

Milk: Dairy & Non-Dairy Options

Traditionally, this is made with full-fat milk for richness. But feel free to use whatever milk you prefer! Almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk all work beautifully. Each will give a slightly different flavour profile – coconut milk makes it extra creamy and delicious.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic!

1. First, grab a saucepan and add the milk, turmeric powder, chopped ginger, black pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Now, place the saucepan over medium heat. Keep a close eye on it, stirring occasionally. You want it to gently simmer – not boil!
3. Once it’s simmering (you’ll see little bubbles around the edges), remove it from the heat.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into your favourite mug. This gets rid of any bits of ginger and ensures a smooth, creamy drink.
5. Stir in the honey while it’s still warm. Taste and add more if you like it sweeter.
6. Finally, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for a beautiful finish. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t boil the milk! Simmering is key to preserving the nutrients and flavour.
• Strain, strain, strain! A smooth golden milk is a happy golden milk.
• Adjust to your taste. Feel free to play around with the amount of honey and spices.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile. Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

Vegan Golden Milk

Simply use your favourite plant-based milk! Almond, oat, and coconut milk are all fantastic choices. You can also swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you like a bit more heat, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder flavour, reduce the amount of ginger.

Golden Milk for Monsoon/Winter/Festivals

During the monsoon season, my family loves to add a pinch of cardamom for extra warmth. For festivals, a tiny drop of rose water adds a beautiful fragrance.

Golden Milk Concentrate – Make Ahead Option

Want to save time? Make a concentrate! Double or triple the recipe (without the honey), simmer, strain, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to drink, simply heat up a portion with milk and honey.

Serving Suggestions

Golden Milk is perfect on its own, but it’s also lovely with a side of dates or a few almond biscuits. It’s a wonderful bedtime drink to help you relax and unwind.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Golden Milk can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What are the benefits of drinking golden milk?

Golden milk is believed to have numerous health benefits, thanks to the powerful combination of turmeric, ginger, and other spices. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant boost, and potential to support immunity.

Can I make golden milk ahead of time?

Yes! As mentioned above, you can make a concentrate and store it in the fridge for a few days.

What kind of milk is best for golden milk?

Any milk you like! Traditionally, full-fat milk is used, but plant-based milks are a great option too.

Can I use turmeric powder instead of fresh turmeric?

Absolutely! Turmeric powder works perfectly well.

Is black pepper necessary in golden milk?

Yes, it really is! It helps your body absorb the curcumin in turmeric.

How can I adjust the sweetness of golden milk?

Simply add more or less honey (or your preferred sweetener) to taste.