Vegan Golden Cinnamon Turmeric Latte

First it was kale. Then quinoa. There always seems to be a trending vegetable, spice or superfood that pops up on everyone’s radar all at once.

And the latest food trend is all about…turmeric!

Today, I want to tell you about the benefits of turmeric and how to easily incorporate it into your diet, and share a delicious recipe for a vegan golden cinnamon turmeric latte with you that will spice up your morning routine in a really good way!

Turmeric: A Powerhouse Spice

This powerhouse spice is full of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is showing up in recipes and restaurants everywhere these days. Best known for its potent flavor and vibrant color, turmeric has been most commonly used in curry or Indian-inspired dishes. But, with its long list of health benefits, it’s now showing up in everything from soups and stir frys to smoothies and juices.

My favorite way to enjoy turmeric is in this deliciously easy turmeric latte. In fact, I start every morning with one. Not only is it perfect for the increasingly chilly season, but it’s a healthy alternative to coffee.

Paired with cinnamon and honey, this turmeric latte is a quintessential elixir that will make you fall in love with turmeric! Also, make sure to always add a bit of black pepper to any turmeric drink or dish as the piperine in black pepper helps to increase the bioavailability of curcumin (one of the active compounds in turmeric) in the body.

Vegan Golden Cinnamon Turmeric Latte

How To Get More Turmeric Into Your Diet

Here are some easy tips for incorporating more turmeric into your daily diet:

• It’s bright orange color makes it a great addition to smoothies and smoothie bowls that contain ingredients like mangos, carrots, bananas, pineapple, ginger, and coconut.
• When it comes to making vegan cheese sauces or dips, turmeric can give things like blended cashews, boiled squashes, or pureed white beans that typical orange, mac-and-cheese hue. It’s also ideal for things like tofu scrambles or other vegetarian dishes that require an “eggy” color.
• For joint pain, sprains or injuries, try a topical application of two parts turmeric mixed with one part salt.

And, if you’re looking for actual recipes to try, there are lots of vegan and non-vegan recipes that highlight turmeric. Here are some of our favorites!

• Here, turmeric is used in its traditional form as the base in an Indian-inspired dish. This Vegetable Carrot Fried Rice-Carrot Veggie Turmeric Pilaf recipe from Vegan Richa is a crowd-pleaser.
• Non-dairy mac-and-cheese can achieve its bright orange hue with turmeric. Not only does turmeric boost the color, but it adds a nutritional boost as well. This Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese recipe from The Vegan Pact is a healthy alternative to the junk-food, store-bought version
• Think you can’t have quiche without eggs? Think again! Tofu, black salt, nutritional yeast, and turmeric come together to form a decadent brunch dish that I think is better than the non-vegan version. This impressive Vegan Quiches with Asparagus and Tomato recipe from Vegan Heaven is one you can include in your weekly breakfast rotation.
• This beautiful smoothie bowl that boasts a big assortment of turmeric, fruits, and ginger is a great option to kickstart any day. Get the recipe from Thrive Market here.
• Is there anything better than getting a hint of fresh turmeric root in your non-dairy ice cream? I don’t think so! This candied ginger and turmeric dessert is beyond decadent and absolutely gorgeous! Get the recipe from Sassy Kitchen, and prepare to be amazed!

Additional articles on turmeric, featured on Herbal Academy.

• Using turmeric for your pets – Turmeric For Dogs and Other Animals   
• Turmeric as a way to address tooth issues – Herbal Remedies for a Toothache
• A seasonal smoothie recipe, perfect for autumn – Immune Boosting Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
• Getting crafty with turmeric – How to Dye Easter Eggs Naturally

If you’ve yet to try this powerhouse super spice, what are you waiting for? The benefits of turmeric are endless-and delicious!