This easy Turmeric Root Milk recipe is made with 4 ingredients. All you need is almonds, fresh turmeric root, fresh ginger root, and water. This nut milk is loaded with antioxidants and is incredibly healing.
What is turmeric root? With light brown skin and brightly colored orange flesh, turmeric root looks like ginger root. It has a slightly bitter, delicately spicy flavor. Ground turmeric, found in most spice cabinets, and used in curries, comes from turmeric root.
Turmeric contains a substance called curcumin that has amazing properties. Its anti-inflammatory effects have been likened to those of aspirin, without the toxic repercussions of non steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS). Curcumin is thought to combat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and cancer.
Like dandelion root, turmeric is may aid in detoxifying the liver. That’s why I often use this amazing nut milk in my Dandelion Root Coffee or my Instant Dandelion Latte. I love delicious functional foods that are delicious and healthy.
- Soak almonds overnight in several cups water
- Discard soaking water and rinse almonds in a deep, large bowl of water, repeat until water runs clear
- Place soaked almonds, 2 cups water, turmeric root, and ginger root in a vitamix
- Blend on high speed for 60 seconds
- Strain milk through a nut milk bag, save pulp to make Almond Pulp Macaroons
- Serve
When I make Turmeric Root Milk I do not peel the skin from the tumeric root or ginger root. Why create more work and waste a perfectly edible part of these healing foods? Sometimes I add a few drops of vanilla stevia to this recipe. Alternatively, blend in a couple of dates before the straining step of the recipe. Feel free to experiment with other nuts when you make this milk. I used Brazil nuts and it was delicious. Turmeric Root Milk lasts 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
I’m often asked how to use turmeric root. In addition to making this milk, sometimes I push turmeric root through my juicer along with my daily juice which is full of incredible antioxidants. I purchase fresh turmeric root at various grocery stores here in Boulder. Often I go from store to store to find it as none seem to stock it regularly. It’s worth the hunt though, because Golden Turmeric Root Milk will brighten even the dreariest of days with its gorgeous hue!
I’ve been making homemade nut milk since the late 1990’s. Here are some of my other easy nut milk recipes:
Marlene Ebinger says
Great info /recipe THX! BTW Whole Foods sells organic Turmeric root in the produce section, not cheap but a little goes along way> I keep it and ginger root in my freezer, grating what I need as i go. SOOOO much easier (and more bio-availability, vitamins etc if fresh vs powder) to freeze than trying to use it all up quick before it goes bad and having to buy it again and again. Don’t thaw after freezing tho, it will be mushy. It grows easily here in No CA (zone 9)and is pretty too! Trader Joe’s has relatively inexpensive bags of Organic Unsweetened (!)Coconut in either flakes or chips. Best option I think for the “real thing”. Thought ZI’d share my “frugal finds” with you all. Enjoy!
Elana says
Marlene, such GREAT tips! Thanks so much :-)
Marlene says
THX Elena – love your site and your books! Forgot to mention, tho more expensive, I agree ginger and turmeric roots are best bought organic as you said in another post. People please DO NOT buy roots from China! They process our garbage (!), have lots of heavy metal infiltration in their soils and do NOT have much, if any, in the way of restrictions on their food integrity. It’s worth the extra cost to buy organic and from trusted growers/countries!
Elana says
Marlene, thanks so much for your comment! I only use organic in this recipe :-)
Susan Z. says
I love this recipe and in fact any recipe with turmeric. I feel compelled to mention that it is super easy to grow indoors. I grow it on my windowsills and it just flourishes.
Elana says
Susan, that’s such a great idea!
tj says
Don’t use the skin of shop bought turneric and ginger they have been treated with griwth inhibitors to lengthen shelf life
Elana says
TJ, I only use organic ginger and turmeric :-)
Masrrienne de Blois says
I am making my Golden Milk from your Recipe Elana and it is fabulous. However do I have to cook this as I am just blitzing it all up in my Nutribullet and storing it in a glass jar in the refrigerator and just bringing it out and drinking without heating/cooking it… is this o.k. or am I missing something in the steps… doing it this way, will it still be as potent or does the heating release “goodies” that not heating will not do… many thanks for such a wonderful site !!
Elana says
Masrrienne, thanks for your comment! I don’t heat this milk in a pan, I blend it in my vitamix to get all of the goodies out :-)
Marrienne de Blois says
Thank you Elena !! I prefer mine raw as well and it is so wonderful…thank you so much for all your help with this recipe, I am dealing with pancreatitis, torn rotor cuff muscles, an osteoarthritic knee which I twisted badly when out walking last week and my Turmeric Milk has been a life saver for all of those aspects. You are a national treasure for all your hard work and research… know that we appreciate you here in New Zealand !!
Elana says
Marrienne, I’m so grateful for your kind words and very sorry to hear about the health issues you are dealing with. I hope you’ll stop back by soon and let me know how you’re doing. Greeting to you in NZ! xoxox
Deborah Trismen says
Just had my first cup of golden milk. I made my own coconut milk 1 cup finely shredded coconut to two cups of coconut water then added fresh ginger, fresh turmeric root cinnamon cardamon black pepper whirled this all together in my ninja strained and warmed gently. Did not need any sweetener and tasted great. This has become my most favorite beverage.
Elana says
Deborah, I’m thrilled to hear this has become your most favorite beverage!
Peter says
I was interested in Mary’s comment (January 14, 2015 at 10:25 pm) that quote: “Black Pepper multiplies the good stuff in Turmeric many times over” unquote. I take it that this means that black peppercorns added to turmeric paste will increase the potency of the active ingredient – curcumin – “many times over”
However I haven’t been able to find any evidence of this in web searches so was hoping for some more facts or evidence from readers!!!
Susan says
Check out Dr. Michael Greger’s amazing book, “How Not To Die”. He references the studies that prove this and any other healthy things.
Satya says
Ginger does the same thing, but isn’t as irritating to the stomach. It’s actually soothing.
Emily says
I made this last night and it turned out fantastic! I used cashews instead of almonds and didn’t bother straining the milk. It was creamy and refreshing! I’ll definitely be making this again! :)
Cynthia Rose Webber Shell says
I had an ankle replacement due to arthritis two years ago. Lot of damage going on there. It’s always been a little nagging after surgery just due to the surgery and inflammation. I was doing well until one afternoon while walking my 4 dogs, to avoid scaring a person to death, (didn’t work by the way lol), I moved off the sidewalk. While doing so, I stepped into the sprinkler hole, yes, you guessed it, with that ankle. Ouch is not the word I used lol. After falling completely face first, my first thought was…oh no, I broke it completely! It was so painful. I was afraid to get up. Well, good news, I was able to get up and walk home. Went to doctor, he said I was lucky, all is fine. Only thing is, was so sore. Swelling everyday. I was thinking, great, how do I get a hold of this. I was just about ready to reach for the Advil or Aleve. Then I remembered reading about turmeric. So I decided to attempt it. I used the process below. At first I used to just put the raw turmeric and ginger in the green smoothies I would make but never really noticed anything. I never used fresh pepper or any pepper either. Until that day! That day a miracle happened! That was about 2 weeks ago. I cannot believe it! At first I was afraid to say anything because I was thinking it was all in my mind. I’ll say something and then poof, I won’t be able to walk or something because of the pain. I know they say it takes time to get in the body and work but I am telling you, the first night, I drink it at night, the first night while laying in bed, my feet both of them felt weird. Don’t know how to explain it but as if my blood was circulating around my feet lol I know I know, I’m crazy lol. Just saying.. The next morning as I woke, I got out of bed and as usual I was very careful with my ankle, usually has this feeling of tenderness as I touch the floor…..and…nothing! I laughed to myself. That day it was amazing, I kept waiting lol and nothing. Just a little soreness but not like before. After my first 3 days of it, I was so excited. I have been using it about 2 weeks now. Out of the two weeks I have only gone 3 days without it. I am afraid not to drink it. Oh by the way, I never touched the Advil or Aleve! I haven’t made the paste yet. I wasn’t sure how because all recipes call to use the turmeric powder. I finally found one today using the root which I am going to try. Sorry this is so long, just wanted to explain why, how and results of using turmeric golden milk. I am still afraid that all of a sudden it will go away and the pain will return because it just seems like a miracle. Honestly, I am still in awe of the results. I want everyone to realize and use this miracle root. I don’t drink it too soon before bed because there are times it may cause heartburn / acid reflux at times. I will drink my organic apple cider vinegar water to relieve this. I can deal with that far easier than not being comfortable while walking. It can also cause loose bowels at times depending on dosage. Once again, I can walk! lol. My ankle has improved 100%, I walk the dogs and it does not pain me at all.
I have been fortunate to find the turmeric root in my area. I’m thinking of attempting to plant some. Hoping for it to grow. I live in south FL. I had no idea how much root to use so I use approximately 1-1/2 inches of turmeric root, fresh ginger about 1/2 thumb worth lol, I just cut about an inch or less depending how thick the root is, I use whole peppercorns, about 10, maybe less at times. I put them all in the Nutrabullet, raw with a bout 1/2 cup of coconut milk. Blend until all smooth. I place them in the pot with the rest of the coconut milk, a 13oz can of Goya. So far that is the one I can find in supermarket that has less additives of junk in it. I bring to a little bubbling goes on, let it go on for about a minute or so. Take off heat, let it set for awhile. When I’m ready to drink, I add cinnamon, little coconut oil, very little, and unfiltered raw honey. I’m going to try the vanilla idea, sounds good.
gert says
was very inspired reading your story. you can get dry coconut milk from wilderness family in minnesota, mix it with warm water, very delicious.
Lauren McGill says
I have been looking for ways to get more turmeric into my diet- thanks for the great inspiration Elena!
Donna says
I would love more supermilk recipes. Thank you
Uros G. says
Turmeric milk is my absolute favorite night time drinks other than hot tea. And it’s not only completely comforting, relaxing, and soothing at night, but also extremely nutritious.
Elana Amsterdam says
Nancy,
That was a mistake. Thanks for catching it! I’ve updated the yield to 2 1/2 cups :-)
Elana
Julie says
I soaked almonds last night and made the golden milk this morning. I used the turmeric paste guidelines given by a commenter. I ended up with just over 2 cups of golden milk. I think that if I had a nut milk bag the yield would have been more. I think it is delicious on its own and right now I am enjoying it in a cup of my dandelion root coffee. The turmeric flavor shines through even the strong flavor of the dandelion beverage. Thank you! My winter morning has been made warmer due to this drink!
Mearced says
My favorite morning drink … 1t cocoa powder dissolved in 1/2c hot water; add a few drops of peppermint extract, 1/4c homemade fermented coconut or almond milk & stevia to taste. When I need some appetite control, I leave out the peppermint and add fenugreek powder and cinnamon instead. Fenugreek powder has almost a maple flavor. Another option is to add maca powder for the energy and nutrient boost.
Marianna Love says
My favorite morning drink is 1 can of organic full fat NATURAL VALUE (doesn’t have additives) coconut milk heated with 1 teaspoon of EACH organic powdered turmeric, cardamon, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper with 1/2 teaspoon of organic Grade B maple syrup added before drinking..
Veleda says
I’m having the hardest time finding turmeric root in my area.
Wendy says
Thank you for this recipe! I have used turmeric root in various teas and in stir-fried veggie combinations. For the stir-fry recipes, I do grate or chop it fine (wear gloves and put it onto a paper towel or special cutting board) It is much easier to just put the root in the blender, as trying to cut it and peel it stains everything it touches! I have a Blendtec, and it works beautifully. I don’t know if a regular blender would grind as well, but straining it is easy enough to do.
I bought organic fresh turmeric root from Amazon. I dried a little of it, used some fresh, and wrapped the rest and put it in the freezer. I love the stuff more than the powdered, but use that, too for convenience, in whatever dish I can perceive is appropriate for it. Using ginger, black pepper and/or red pepper is a good idea. Fortunately, I don’t seem to have issues with blood thinning/thickening, but I don’t use a ton of it and use it maybe a few times a week or month – not daily.
Thank you again for this info and for all the comments!
mary says
I have found this to work great, very easy with powder.
First, make Turmeric Paste:
1/4 C turmeric powder + 1/2 cup pure water + 1/2 t ground black pepper or throw in a few peppercorns (they’ll dissolve). Black Pepper multiplies the good stuff in Turmeric many times over.
Simmer over medium-high at least 7 minutes. Stir constantly to make a thick paste. If too thick/dry add H2O. When cool, put in fridge in glass. Keeps 3-4 weeks.
To make Golden Milk, I use
1/2 t Turmeric Paste,
1C coconut moo,
1/2 t coconut oil,
honey, maple syrup or stevia to taste,
pinch of cinnamon (optional).
Heat the moo, add Turmeric paste, coconut oil (& cinnamon). Mix. Sweeten to taste.
Yummy !
Wendy says
Thank you, Mary, for the paste recipe. This will help to use it more easily, and prepare once for many uses! The milk sounds wonderful, too and I’ll try that for sure.
Sandra says
I just made the Golden milk recipe using your paste, delish! I added a teas vanilla and maple syrup to taste and it is so good. Perfect way to use the powder that I was struggling to use. This recipe is also great because I cook the tumeric with the pepper, then I add coconut oil. I have everything need in this drink for the tumeric to be absorbed by my body. Thanks a million for this great recipe. I can tell you I will keep some in the fridge. Awesome!!!
mary says
I add a bit of vanilla to my drink, too. Vanilla seems to make almost everything better!
Elizabeth says
What is coconut moo?
olijfjes met pit says
This sounds good too. I made the cold version because I think when you heat it to much, it all looses power again? what do you girls think?
I love this site and the way you inspire each other, very greatfull, it made my day.
With my cup of “golden milk”.
Made as in the cold version, soaked almonds, fresh tumeric, and cups of gingerthe, (ginger cut in pieces in a pan brought to the boil, left overnight) and a drop of stevia, amazing. have a nice day.
Pua Haight says
I actually make something similar to your dandelion latte but use the ground hebs… I am working on a mixture that I call my “golden turkish mix”…couldn’t use the name Dandy as its taken already :) In addition to almond milk, dandelion, chicory, turmeric and ginger I add cardamom…and like you, I like vanilla stevie but sparingly. I fell in love with cardamom in Turkish coffee. Yum…
Bollywoodtracie says
That sounds really good! I love those spices used in Middle Eastern and Indian food.How do you add the cardamom? Do you crush it or leave it whole?
Eleanor Snyder says
We have had an over abundance of turmeric and few ideas of how to use it. I have to be careful not to let a tuber or two left in the garden because it proliferates like crazy here in Hawaii. I’m looking forward to more recipes.
aidelknaidel says
I’ve been reading about “fire cider.” It also uses turmeric root. Try googling.
olijfjes met pit says
I love to hear that, I should go live somewhere like that, hahaha
Audrey V says
Nuts don’t agree with me, so I am going to try this with homemade coconut milk. I might try powdered turmeric until I can find the root. Thanks!
Bj says
Exciting. I’ll have to try it. My daughter is now DF And can’t have coconut or rice milk. Willing to try anythIng to bring down her inflammation.
curtrud says
Can you use turmeric powder and if so how much.
nancy3 says
Is the yield really 5 cups? Doesn’t seem there is nearly enough water and other ingredients to make that much. Can’t wait to try making this.
M.J. Escobar says
I have some turmeric root now. I’ll give this a shot. Any tips for making a rich hemp milk that my son will like? He loves unsweetened almond milk but not so much the hemp milk. It’s so nutritious though. I’d like to find a way to make it taste better for him. Dates maybe?
Diana O'Brien says
Thanks for posting this question, I was about to ask about making hemp milk and also about the dates! If you find a recipe would you mind sharing?
Kelley says
I add a banana and the kids will drink it. It adds a bit of sweetness too.
Barbara D-H says
I drink Golden Milk at night (heated), but because a family member has a serious nut allergy, I use coconut milk. Can anyone tell me how to make this Turmeric Root Milk by substituting coconut for almonds? I’m surprised at how many recipes I find these days using nuts, considering the large increase in nut allergies.
Mearced says
Add 1 c shredded coconut (better if first ground in coffee grinder) and 1c water in high powered blender. Then add 2 additional cups of water. Straining is optional. EASY!
Barbara D-H says
Thanks Mearced! I’ve got some organic shredded coconut, so I’ll give it a try!
Heather R-S says
I can’t wait to try this! I love the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, and the digestive support of ginger. This is gonna be great!
Heather says
I, too, have difficulty finding it year-round. I do, however, have a rather large bag of turmeric powder. Could you provide a measurement for using powder versus fresh? Thank you ever so much!
Nance says
Per Publix grocery chain’s info, use 1/3 teaspoon powdered herb for every tablespoon of fresh herb.
louise raciti says
turmeric powder should always be mixed with oil as it does not dissolve in water
the green pulse says
Love it and can not wait to try it! I love this recipe too. It’s muscle recovery tea and created by a fellow naturopathic doctor: http://thegreenpulse.com/2011/11/25/seattle-is-for-runners/
Elizabeth Mugrage says
Cur cumin is not for everyone. It can diminish the clotting factor of people with blood disease, it can adversely effect people with low hemiglobin. Large doses might even effect fertility in women. This information is available on internet.
Christine Mannino says
Wow! I often have low hemoglobin (u wrote Hemiglobin, is there a difference?). Many of us don’t have the conveniences you have so we take capsule form of Turmeric by Organic India. Your opinion…and how much should i take if hemoglobin concern??