Check out this delicious recipe for a heart-warming chai.
It’s August tomorrow and as I’ve been promising a health-kick since June, tomorrow is finally ‘D-day’!
I’ve committed to more exercise and giving up sugar, processed food and alcohol for the month (with a few exceptions for special occasions).
So, to prepare, I’ve been clearing out my pantry, stocking up on fermented veggies, kombucha and homemade granola mix and I made a delicious chai mix this weekend (recipe below). I’m hoping this will help to stave off my sugar cravings in the evenings. I’ve added fresh turmeric as it’s such a wonderful spice and it’s so delicious. The only downside is that I still have yellow fingers!
Turmeric is said to assist in liver detox and fat metabolism, so is great for any detox regimen. There is research to suggest it may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes and slow the progression of Alzheimers disease.
It’s anti-microbial, fending off bacterial and viral infections. It’s long been used as a treatment for colds in India and to fight depression. It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory and is said to reduce the risk of some cancers. It’s wonderful for the skin, assisting in healing of wounds, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
RECIPE FOR TURMERIC CHAI (though I guesstimated a little)
– Grate a thumb-size knob of ginger
– and the same of fresh turmeric
– 1 cup almond or coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 8 cardamom pods
– 8 black peppercorns (this helps digestion of the turmeric)
– 2 sticks cinnamon
– 4 star anise
– 4 black tea bags (or equivalent for loose tea leaves)
– 1 or 2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
You could also add cloves, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, vanilla etc!
Add the ginger, turmeric, almond or coconut milk, water and spices to a small saucepan over medium heat. Slowly bring to a low simmer and simmer for about 10 minutes, adding the tea bags in the last couple of minutes. Remove from heat and pour the chai through a sieve or mesh strainer. Add honey to taste. Makes approx 2 cups. Relax and enjoy!
