Comforting Golden Milk (Haldi Doodh)
A classic in many Indian households, Haldi Doodh, or Golden Milk, is a warm and soothing beverage perfect for winding down. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is the star of this drink, giving it a vibrant golden hue. To prepare, simply
heat a cup of milk (dairy or a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy works well) in a small saucepan. Whisk in about a teaspoon of ground turmeric, a pinch of black pepper (which helps with turmeric absorption), and a dash of cinnamon. For extra flavour, you can add a slice of fresh ginger or a crushed cardamom pod. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes, but avoid boiling it, as this can make it taste bitter. Strain into a mug, sweeten with a bit of honey to your liking, and enjoy this comforting elixir.
Zesty Ginger-Lemon Tea
When you need a drink that’s both invigorating and calming, look no further than a simple ginger-lemon tea. This naturally caffeine-free brew is great for digestion and provides a gentle, warming sensation. To make it, roughly slice a one-inch piece of fresh ginger—no need to peel it. Add the ginger slices to a pot with two cups of water and bring to a simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep it, the spicier it will get. Turn off the heat and strain the liquid into a mug. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and stir in a teaspoon of honey to balance the flavours. You can also make a concentrate ahead of time by layering thin slices of lemon and ginger in a jar and covering them with honey; simply scoop a spoonful into hot water whenever you need a quick cup.
Refreshing Hibiscus Iced Tea
For a vibrant and tangy refresher, hibiscus iced tea is an excellent choice. Its beautiful ruby-red colour is matched by a tart, cranberry-like flavour that's incredibly thirst-quenching. You can use either dried hibiscus flowers or hibiscus tea bags. Simply bring about four cups of water to a boil, then remove it from the heat. Add a few tablespoons of dried hibiscus flowers or 4-5 tea bags and let them steep for 10 minutes. Be careful not to oversteeep, as it can become bitter. Strain the tea (or remove the bags) and let it cool. Once chilled, you can sweeten it with honey or a simple syrup. Serve over ice with a wedge of lime and a sprig of mint for a perfect afternoon drink.
Tangy and Savoury Jaljeera
If you're in the mood for something savoury and cooling, Jaljeera is a popular North Indian drink that delivers a unique burst of flavour. It's a blend of water, cumin, and other spices that aids digestion and is perfect for a hot day. To create a simple version at home, start by making a paste. In a blender, combine a cup of fresh mint leaves, half a cup of coriander leaves, a small piece of ginger, and some tamarind pulp for sourness. Add roasted cumin powder, black salt (kala namak), and a pinch of sugar. Blend this with a little water until smooth. To serve, mix a few tablespoons of this flavourful paste into a glass of chilled water. Stir well, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and garnish with some boondi (small fried chickpea flour balls) for a traditional touch.
Warm Spiced Apple Cider
Nothing says 'cosy' quite like a mug of warm spiced apple cider. This non-alcoholic beverage is fragrant, sweet, and perfect for a chilly evening. The best part is how easy it is to make your home smell amazing while it simmers. Pour a gallon of good quality apple cider into a large pot. Add a few cinnamon sticks, some whole cloves, and a star anise pod. For extra depth, you can add the peel of an orange. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium low heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the cider fully. Avoid boiling it. Strain the cider to remove the whole spices and serve warm in mugs. You can add many tablespoons of maple syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
