Contents
Whole botanical roots, fragrant warming spices, and antioxidant-rich tea combine harmoniously to build this powerful health tonic. Best served warm on a chilly morning, or chilled over a pitcher of ice cubes with a fresh lemon wedge for a refreshing afternoon wellness flush.
Ingredients
- 2 cups filtered water (for initial concentrated simmer)
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, thinly sliced or grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh turmeric root, thinly sliced or grated
- 1 large Ceylon cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 bags chai tea (black tea-based)
- 2 to 3 cups additional filtered water or sparkling water (for diluting)
- Fresh lemon slices (for garnishing and serving)
- Optional sugar-free sweetener: Stevia or monk fruit drops to taste
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Instructions
- Wash fresh ginger and turmeric roots thoroughly. Slice the roots into thin rounds (no need to peel them completely if washed well, but scrubbing clean is essential).
- In a small saucepan or pot, combine the 2 cups of filtered water, sliced fresh ginger, sliced fresh turmeric, large cinnamon stick, and whole black peppercorns.
- Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to medium-low so the liquid maintains a gentle, steady simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until the water reduces slightly and turns into a brilliant, deep golden-orange concentrate.
- Turn off the stovetop heat. Drop the 2 chai tea bags directly into the hot, spiced root infusion.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it steep undisturbed for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Remove the lid and discard the used chai tea bags and cinnamon stick.
- Pour the hot golden liquid through a fine-mesh strainer set over a glass pitcher or large mason jar dispenser, pressing down on the ginger and turmeric slices with a spoon to extract every drop.
- Dilute the concentrated golden infusion with an additional 2 to 3 cups of fresh filtered water (or sparkling water).
- Serve warm in mugs, or pour over a glass dispenser filled with fresh ice cubes and lemon slices.
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Notes
Chef’s Tip: Turmeric stains skin and countertops very easily; consider wearing kitchen gloves or using a stainless steel cutting board when slicing fresh turmeric root! Whole black peppercorns are a crucial bio-availability enhancer; piperine increases turmeric absorption by up to 2,000%.
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