Ginger Turmeric Tea

Ginger tumeric tea, or what I like to call “sick tea” is a staple in my house in the winter. I call it that because it’s the perfect remedy when you’re sick. Fresh ginger and turmeric are steeped with some spices, honey, and lemon, with a dash of apple cider vinegar at the end to balance the flavor.

I’ve made a few variations of this tea, depending on what I have available. Some things stay the same: there’s always fresh ginger, lemon, and honey. The turmeric can be fresh or dried, and if I have it, I’ll use cinnamon honey instead of a cinnamon stick. Same with fresh mint; I don’t always add it, but if I have some, it brightens up the flavor a bit. Unlike dried tea, you need to have the ingredients on hand to make this.

I don’t know the exact science behind why these things make you feel better. I suppose honey soothes a sore throat, and ginger has the ability to soothe an upset stomach. Everything else? Not sure, but it works, so I keep making it.

Fresh turmeric can be hard to find. It looks kind of like ginger, but has a reddish brown skin and bright orange flesh. If you can’t find it, a quarter teaspoon of dried will work fine. Don’t use too much or your tea may be bitter. And speaking of too much, the tiniest pinch of cayenne and black pepper will do. You want enough to help clear your sinuses; too much will make the tea overwhelmingly spicy. The apple cider vinegar lends a pleasant tang to the tea that makes it much more drinkable in my opinion. The dried spices will get in the tea; I just drink them.