Golden milk
As the almond milk warms on the stove, the spices spread through the liquid instead of sitting in clumps. Turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger are dry powders, but with steady heat and whisking, they loosen up and mix in smoothly. The milk gets a little thicker and creamier as tiny bits of spice stay suspended in it, so each sip tastes the same from top to bottom.
During heating, the honey or maple syrup dissolves into the hot milk, so there are no gritty spots. Vanilla softens the sharp edges of the spices, and the pinch of black pepper keeps the turmeric from tasting flat. Once the coconut oil goes in, the fat blends into the hot milk and gives the latte a round, silky feel. After a few minutes on the stove, everything has had time to blend, the drink looks even in color, and it pours into the mug as one smooth, golden drink.
Recipe Courtesy of Itsonly Recipes
Ingredients
Almond milk serves as the creamy base, making it a great dairy-free option.
Turmeric the star of the show, provides that golden hue and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of sweetness, while ginger contributes a subtle, spicy kick.
Honey or maple syrup to sweeten things up naturally.
A dash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors.
Don’t forget the black pepper; it enhances the absorption of turmeric's active ingredient, curcumin.
Lastly, a spoonful of coconut oil can be added for a richer, frothier finish.
Mistakes To Avoid
Letting the milk boil hard instead of just heating it gently can cause a skin to form on top and the liquid to reduce too much. The spices then cling to the thicker parts and the drink turns grainy and uneven instead of smooth and sippable.
Adding the honey or maple syrup while the pan is on very high heat can make it stick to the bottom and scorch. Once that happens, the whole latte picks up a burnt, bitter edge and the sweetness tastes harsh instead of soft.
Skipping the whisking or barely stirring the pan leaves the turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger sitting in clumps. The result is a drink where some sips are watery and others are thick with powder that settles at the bottom of the mug.
Pouring in a big spoon of coconut oil without enough whisking at the end often leads to an oily layer floating on top. Instead of a creamy, blended latte, the drink separates, with slick patches of oil on the surface and a thinner body underneath.
