Are you looking for a simple way to boost your daily dose of wellness? Look no further than golden milk! This vibrant, flavorful drink is packed with anti-inflammatory properties and boasts a delicious, subtly sweet taste. Forget those pricey store-bought versions; today, we’re making a golden milk paste from scratch – a versatile base for countless creamy, comforting drinks. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a quick dinner idea or a soothing nighttime beverage. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this incredibly simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe.
Ingredients for Golden Milk Paste
This recipe makes a generous amount of paste, enough to last for several weeks, providing a steady supply of this delicious and healthy drink.
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes (or overnight)
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup filtered water (more may be needed depending on your blender)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste, optional)
Instructions: Creating Your Golden Milk Paste
Follow these simple steps to create your golden milk paste:
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Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain and rinse the cashews thoroughly. This step removes any excess starch and helps create a smoother paste.
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Combine ingredients: Add the drained cashews, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, cardamom (if using), water, and maple syrup/honey (if using) to a high-speed blender.
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Blend until smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach the desired consistency. It should resemble a thick paste.
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Store: Transfer the golden milk paste to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
How to Enjoy Your Golden Milk
The best part? This paste is incredibly versatile! To make a single serving of golden milk:
- Simply whisk 1-2 tablespoons of the paste into 1 cup of hot (but not boiling) milk – dairy or non-dairy, such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
- For an extra touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey to taste.
Delicious Variations & Cooking Tips
- Spiced it up: Experiment with other warming spices like nutmeg or cloves.
- Nutty alternatives: Substitute almonds or other nuts for the cashews, adjusting the soaking time accordingly.
- Sweetener variations: Use dates or other natural sweeteners instead of maple syrup or honey.
- Make it frothy: For a café-style golden milk, froth your milk before adding the paste.
- Freezing for longer storage: Portion the paste into ice cube trays and freeze for longer storage. Pop out cubes as needed.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon of paste – approximate)
Nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. This is a rough estimate and should not be considered medical advice. It’s best to consult a nutritionist for personalized information.
- Calories: Approximately 50-70
- Fat: 4-6g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 3-5g
- Fiber: 1-2g
This golden milk paste is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious drink as a comforting evening beverage or a warming pick-me-up anytime. It's a simple recipe that yields big results in terms of flavor and health benefits, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes and quick dinner ideas. Start your wellness journey today!