Ginger Turmeric Root Tea — a warming, restorative tonic made by simmering fresh turmeric root and ginger with a pinch of black pepper. Sweeten to taste and enjoy hot or chilled. Vegan and gluten-free.
Jump to Recipe
Fresh turmeric root used to be difficult to find outside specialty markets, but it has become more common in grocery stores recently. Fresh turmeric delivers a vibrant, slightly bitter flavor and stains easily, so handle carefully. In recipes you can often substitute fresh turmeric for ground turmeric — peel and grate or thinly slice and use similarly to fresh ginger. Use smaller amounts than dried turmeric if you want to avoid overpowering bitterness.
When I buy fresh turmeric I usually make a jar of this tea. Simmer thin slices of turmeric and ginger with a dash of freshly ground black pepper for several minutes, then sweeten as desired. Optional additions like a cinnamon stick, fresh lemon slices, or tulsi (Indian holy basil) add depth. Serve it hot as a soothing tonic or chill it for iced tea. Black pepper helps increase curcumin’s bioavailability, so adding some is recommended. How do you like to use fresh turmeric?
Turmeric has long been used to support inflammation and general wellness. As with any ingredient, consume it in moderation; turmeric can affect blood clotting in some people, so consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
More turmeric recipes from the blog:
- Turmeric Peanut Butter Chickpea Curry
- Turmeric Iced Masala Tea
- Turmeric Lentil Spinach Dal with Panch Phoron
- Turmeric Steel Cut Oats
- Turmeric Lemon Rice
- Many Indian vegan recipes
Ginger Turmeric Root Tea
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups water
- 1 inch fresh turmeric root, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 to 3/4 inch ginger root, thinly sliced
- a good dash of freshly ground black pepper
- maple syrup or sugar to taste
Optional add ins:
- Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon
- slices of fresh lemon
- a few leaves of tulsi, Indian holy basil
Instructions
-
Add water, sliced fresh turmeric, sliced ginger, and a dash of freshly ground black pepper to a saucepan. If using, add cinnamon, tulsi, or lemon slices. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and continue to simmer for 6–8 minutes to allow flavors to infuse. Sweeten to taste, strain, and serve warm.
-
To serve cold, chill the brewed tea and pour over ice.
Notes
Nutritional information is based on one serving and is an approximation.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this recipe? Rate and comment below!
