Golden Milk, also known as turmeric latte or haldi doodh, is a warm, comforting beverage that has been cherished in Ayurvedic tradition for thousands of years. This beautiful golden-hued drink combines creamy milk with turmeric and aromatic spices like ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper to create a soothing elixir that’s both delicious and nourishing. The vibrant yellow color comes from turmeric, a powerful spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while the blend of warm spices creates a complex, slightly sweet flavor that’s reminiscent of chai but uniquely its own. Perfect for winding down in the evening or as a cozy morning ritual, this caffeine-free beverage offers a gentle way to incorporate beneficial spices into your daily routine.
Serves: 2 cups (2 servings)
Ingredients
For the golden milk:
- 2 cups whole milk (or coconut milk for dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- Pinch of ground cardamom (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or ghee (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Preparation Time
Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep: 2 minutes
- Cooking: 5-8 minutes
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your spices and measure them out before you begin. If using fresh ginger, peel and grate it finely. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and prevents the milk from overheating while you search for ingredients.
Heat the Milk
Pour the milk into a small saucepan and place it over medium-low heat. You want to warm the milk gently without bringing it to a rolling boil, which can cause it to curdle or develop a skin on top. Stir occasionally as it heats.
Add the Spices
Once the milk is warm but not yet simmering, whisk in the turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and cardamom if using. The black pepper is important as it helps your body absorb the beneficial compounds in turmeric more effectively. Whisk continuously to ensure the spices are well distributed and don’t clump together.
Simmer Gently
Allow the mixture to simmer very gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll notice the milk taking on a beautiful golden color as the turmeric infuses. Keep the heat low to prevent scorching, and don’t let it come to a vigorous boil.
Sweeten and Finish
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in your chosen sweetener, starting with less and adding more to taste. If using coconut oil or ghee, add it now and whisk until melted and incorporated. The fat helps with the absorption of turmeric’s beneficial compounds. Add vanilla extract if desired for extra warmth and sweetness.
Strain and Serve
For the smoothest texture, strain the golden milk through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any spice particles or bits of fresh ginger. Pour into mugs and serve immediately while hot. You can dust the top with a pinch of cinnamon for an extra aromatic touch.
Customization Options
Golden milk is wonderfully adaptable to your taste preferences. For a richer version, use coconut milk or add a splash of heavy cream. Cashew milk and oat milk also work beautifully for dairy-free versions. You can adjust the spice levels to your liking – some people prefer more ginger for heat, while others like extra cinnamon for sweetness.
Make-Ahead Golden Milk Paste
For convenience, you can make a golden milk paste that keeps in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Mix 1/4 cup turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon ginger powder, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and enough water to form a thick paste. Store in a sealed jar and add 1-2 teaspoons to warm milk whenever you want golden milk.
Best Time to Enjoy
Golden milk is traditionally enjoyed in the evening as its warm spices can be soothing and may help promote restful sleep. However, it’s also wonderful as a morning beverage or afternoon treat. Since it’s caffeine-free, you can enjoy it any time of day without worrying about disrupting your sleep schedule.
Storage Tips
Fresh golden milk is best enjoyed immediately, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, whisking well as the spices may settle. The golden milk paste mentioned above is an excellent way to have this nourishing drink ready whenever you need it.
