Warm Garlic Milk Recipe – Palm Sugar & Ayurvedic Benefits

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Warm Garlic Milk Recipe – Palm Sugar & Ayurvedic Benefits

Okay, let’s be real. Garlic in milk? It sounds a little… unexpected, right? But trust me on this one. This warm garlic milk is a hug in a glass, and it’s something my grandmother always made for us when we were feeling under the weather. It’s surprisingly comforting, subtly sweet, and packed with goodness. I’m so excited to share this simple yet incredibly beneficial recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any warm milk. It’s a time-honored remedy, especially popular in Ayurveda, that’s been passed down through generations. It’s incredibly soothing, perfect for a chilly evening, or when you need a little extra support for your immune system. Plus, it’s ready in under 15 minutes! Honestly, it’s a little bit of magic in a mug.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting drink:

• 1.5 cups (360ml) milk
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1.5 teaspoon (approximately 7-8 grams) palm sugar candy

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right makes all the difference.

• Garlic: Don’t be shy with the garlic! It’s the star of the show. I prefer using medium-sized cloves for a good balance of flavour.
• Milk: Any kind of milk works, really! I’ll dive into the different options and their benefits below.
• Palm Sugar Candy: This is where things get interesting. Palm sugar candy (also known as gur in Hindi) has a beautiful caramel-like flavour and is much less processed than regular sugar. It adds a lovely depth to the milk.

Milk Varieties & Benefits

You have options here!

• Cow’s Milk: Traditionally used, it’s rich and creamy.
• Almond Milk: A great dairy-free option, adds a subtle nutty flavour.
• Soy Milk: Another good dairy-free choice, with a neutral taste.
• Oat Milk: Becoming increasingly popular, it’s naturally sweet and creamy.

Each milk offers different nutritional benefits, so choose what suits your dietary needs and preferences.

Garlic: Types & Selection

While any type of garlic will work, I find that Indian garlic varieties have a slightly milder flavour, which is nice in this drink. Look for firm, plump cloves without any soft spots or sprouting.

Palm Sugar Candy: A Traditional Sweetener & Its Uses

Palm sugar candy is unrefined sugar made from the sap of palm trees. It’s a staple in Indian kitchens and is believed to have warming properties. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores. If you can’t find palm sugar candy, you can substitute with jaggery, or even a little bit of honey or maple syrup, though the flavour will be slightly different.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, peel your garlic cloves and give them a rough chop. Don’t worry about making them super tiny – they’ll soften as they simmer.
2. Pour the milk into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overflow!
3. Once boiling, add the chopped garlic to the milk. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 7-10 minutes. You’ll notice the milk starts to take on a subtle garlic aroma.
4. Now, add the palm sugar candy. Stir gently until it’s completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
5. Finally, pour the warm garlic milk into glasses. You can gently mash the garlic pieces with the back of a spoon if you prefer a smoother texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

A few little things that can elevate your garlic milk game:

• Don’t boil the milk too vigorously, or it might scald.
• Simmering the garlic gently is key to releasing its flavour without making it bitter.
• If you’re using a whole piece of palm sugar candy, you might need to simmer for a little longer to ensure it dissolves completely.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Garlic Milk

Easy! Just use your favourite plant-based milk – almond, soy, or oat milk all work beautifully.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

Palm sugar candy varies in sweetness. Start with 1.5 teaspoons and add more to taste. Honey or maple syrup are good substitutes if you can’t find palm sugar.

Spice Level – Adding Ginger or Black Pepper

A tiny pinch of black pepper helps with the absorption of garlic’s beneficial compounds. You can also add a small piece of grated ginger for a warming kick. My friend, Priya, swears by adding a dash of nutmeg!

Ayurvedic Adaptations – Adding Turmeric or Ashwagandha

For an extra Ayurvedic boost, add a ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder or ½ teaspoon of ashwagandha powder while simmering. These ingredients have powerful anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties.

Serving Suggestions

This milk is best enjoyed warm, straight from the saucepan. It’s perfect as a bedtime drink, a soothing remedy for a cold, or simply a comforting treat on a chilly day. I love pairing it with a few digestive biscuits!

Storage Instructions

This milk is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Is Garlic Milk Safe to Drink Daily?

Yes, for most people, it is! However, if you have any digestive issues or are taking blood thinners, it’s best to consult with your doctor before making it a daily habit.

What are the benefits of using Palm Sugar Candy instead of regular sugar?

Palm sugar candy is less processed and retains more of its natural minerals. It also has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, meaning it doesn’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While you can use garlic powder, the flavour won’t be as vibrant or nuanced. Fresh garlic is definitely recommended for the best results. If you must use powder, start with about ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.

How does this recipe align with Ayurvedic principles?

Garlic and milk are considered warming and nourishing in Ayurveda. This combination is believed to balance kapha and vata doshas, promoting overall well-being.

Can this milk be made ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can simmer the garlic in the milk ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, just reheat and add the palm sugar candy when you’re ready to drink it.