Golden Milk, also known as Haldi Doodh, is like a cozy hug in a mug! This creamy, spiced turmeric drink is filled with warmth and flavor, thanks to turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and clove. It’s the perfect comforting pick-me-up, super easy to make, and ready in just minutes. Plus, it brings that extra dose of cozy goodness in every sip!
What is Haldi Doodh?
Haldi Doodh literally translates to Turmeric Milk. Haldi Doodh has been used for ages in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and still in modern Indian households to treat any number of ailments. At the first hint that my siblings or I were coming down with a cough or cold, my mom would make us Haldi Doodh. The aroma hits first.. earthy and comforting, the taste is full of warm spice with bitter and sweet notes, and the feeling of the hot milk is particularly soothing on the throat.
Haldi Doodh is the original Golden Milk and Turmeric Latte, trendy drink you can find now in many coffee shops and even prepackaged at the grocery store. It’s so simple to make and you can use what you have on hand – the only truly necessary ingredients are turmeric and milk.
Ingredients
- Turmeric (Haldi) is a vibrant, golden spice known for its earthy, peppery flavor and deep color. For the best results in this recipe, opt for organic turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root.
- Cardamom (Velchi) adds a sweet, citrusy warmth that invigorates every sip.
- Cinnamon (Daalchini) brings a cozy, sweet touch, enhancing the comforting flavors of turmeric milk.
- Clove (Lavang) offers a bold, aromatic kick with it’s distinctive warmth.
- Black Pepper (Kali Miri) works wonders by boosting turmeric’s beneficial properties when used together.
- Jaggery, sugar, honey, or agave are optional, but a hint of sweetness balances the strong spices and ties everything together beautifully.
How to make Haldi Doodh
- Using a mortar and pestle or a rolling pin, crush cardamom, cloves, and peppercorns
- Pour milk into the saucepan
- Add the crushed spices
- Add turmeric and ground ginger powder and jaggery or sweetener of choice
- Cook on low to medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and simmer for an additional two to three minutes
- Strain into cups and enjoy hot
How to Enjoy
I love putting on a pot of Haldi Doodh, as soon as I start to smell the simmering milk I feel such a sense of well-being. You don’t need to be under the weather to enjoy a cup of this cozy Turmeric Milk!
It’s a long-time favorite in Indian households and also makes a great alternative to coffee if you’re cutting back on caffeine. A warm turmeric latte is the perfect way to relax in the afternoon or unwind before bed.
Tips and Substitutes
- Fresh organic turmeric root can be used in place of turmeric powder. Grate 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup of milk
- Use milk of choice – I love regular dairy milk, almond milk, and oat milk. You can also use unsweetened coconut milk, soy milk, or cashew milk as other vegan options
- Other than turmeric and milk, the remaining ingredients are optional so use what you have. You can also add a small cinnamon stick if you like.
- Make sure not to add too much turmeric, a little goes a long way!
- Fresh ginger or my handy frozen ginger paste can be used in place of dry ginger powder
- Like it frothy? Use a small hand-held frother. Make sure to fill only half a cup with hot turmeric milk to allow lots of space for the foam.