I absolutely adore the comfort of warm drinks in winter. They can lift you up on a chilly day, be a source of comfort when winding down and can even boast beneficial nutrients for immunity and energy.
While regular ol’ tea and coffee are our first thoughts when it comes to hot drinks, I’m excited to show you some other gorgeous options that taste delicious and will brighten up your day.
Golden milk / Turmeric latte
Makes 1 cup
A warming mug of golden milk is fantastic in the evening as part of a wind down ritual. It’s also a lovely mid-afternoon soother. These spices have been used as part of Ayurvedic wisdom for centuries. A lovely way to indulge in some self care.
- 1 cup milk (can be dairy or almond)
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger root
- Generous pinch ground cinnamon
- Grind of cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons good quality coconut oil or ghee (optional, adds richness)
- 2 teaspoons coconut sugar or pure maple syrup
Place the milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon and black pepper into a small saucepan over a low heat, and allow to bubble for a few minutes. Add additional milk or some hot water if it’s reduced too much.
Use a blender or a stick blender to whiz together with the coconut oil (if using) and the coconut sugar until frothy and smooth in texture. Serve immediately.
Matcha latte
Makes 1 cup
Matcha tea is a special variety of green tea. Its nutritional benefits (high in antioxidants) are increased because you consume the whole leaf. Matcha has about 1/3 the caffeine of coffee but is praised for its ability to aid concentration and focus. It’s a fabulous option for those looking for a little lift without the jitters that coffee can bring. Not all varieties are created equal. Purchase the highest quality that you can.
- ½ - 1 tsp good quality matcha powder (I like Matcha Matcha)
- Splash warm water
- 250ml hot milk (Non-dairy milks are a great match)
- Honey or other sweetener if desired
Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl. Add a splash of warm (not boiling) water and whisk until smooth. Add the hot milk and any sweetener if using.
Serve immediately.
If you’d like your matcha latte to be frothy, use a nutribullet, stick blender or blender to whiz it up.
Chamomile honey latte
Makes 1 cup
Chamomile and honey are a magical fragrant blend. This drink was made for curling up in bed with a book. It will invite a delicious, deep sleep.
- 2 chamomile tea bags
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy will both work)
- Pinch ground cinnamon
- Pinch ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon good quality vanilla extract
- ½-1 teaspoon honey
Place the tea bags in a small saucepan with the milk. Bring to a simmer slowly. Leave to steep for 10 minutes. Squeeze the teabags to release all of the tea. Reheat the milk as desired. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and honey. Stir well and serve.
If you’d like the drink to be frothy, whiz it up in a nutribullet, blender or use a stick blender. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
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Kelly Gibney is an Auckland based food writer, photographer and mum of two. She creates flavour-first wholefood recipes that are simple but delicious. You can find more of her recipes on her Blog or on Instagram. Her debut cookbook is called ‘Wholehearted’.