Golden Milk Latte

Every time I've made the mistake of ordering a $6 golden milk latte at a café, I always end up thinking, "I could have done this way better." Maybe that appears boastful, but I'm at an age where I know what I know, and I know that I've wasted too much money on less-than-mediocre trendy drinks :) 

I often love a warm beverage in the evenings, and if I'm not up for chai or if it's especially cold out, this drink really hits the spot. This is a warming, relaxing option, and it has anti-inflammatory properties to boot!

Everyone has heard the many praises of turmeric - but just a quick recap: its anti-inflammatory, with many studies showing it to be as effective as prescription NSAIDs (painkillers); it's anti-bacterial, anti-septic, improves brain function, increases anti-oxidant capacity of the body (which means it's healing) and it aids digestion.

Despite it's current trendiness, golden milk, known as "haldi-doodh," is an age-old classic in the subcontinent, and a staple remedy for treating coughs and colds.

For a single serving add the following into a small saucepan:

• 8-12 oz full-fat milk (or a non-dairy milk alternative if you have issues with dairy)
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/8 tsp ground cardamom
• a few threads of saffron
• a tiny pinch of cayenne

Mix and bring as close to boiling as possible - so that the turmeric "wakes up". It should lend a bright, warm yellow to the milk. Let it cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend and offer their best.

Add directly into your mug:

• 1-2 teaspoons honey, depending on how sweet you want it
• 1/2 capful of rose water, or 1-2 drops of rose extract

Pour the hot milk into your mug with the honey and rose water and mix well. Enjoy!