Turmeric Immunity Paste

Embrace the changing seasons with a potent remedy that not only bolsters your immune system but also aids in fighting off colds and promotes restful sleep. This ancient elixir is a versatile addition to your benchtop, perfect for golden milk lattes—an Ayurvedic healing drink—or adding a burst of flavour to soups, stews, and curries.

The magic of this remedy lies in its active ingredient, curcumin, found in turmeric. To fully reap its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, it's essential to consume turmeric with a source of fat or oil. I recommend pairing it with coconut oil, ghee, or olive oil for optimal absorption.

Enhancing the bioavailability of curcumin is black pepper, a key ingredient in this recipe. Its presence helps unlock the full potential of curcumin, ensuring you receive its maximum benefits.

Prepare a batch of this golden paste to keep in your fridge, ready to uplift you on those days when you need a little extra care. This recipe yields three jars—one for immediate use, one for the freezer, and one to share with a friend, spreading the warmth and healing power of this nourishing remedy.

INGREDIENTS: 

• 4 tbs coconut oil
• 200g fresh turmeric, sliced
• 100g fresh ginger, sliced
• 1 Tbs cracked pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 Tbs ground cinnamon
• 1 Tbs ground fennel seeds
• Filtered water
• 350g raw honey

Substitution Tip: If fresh turmeric is unavailable, you can substitute with turmeric powder. However, only use one-third of the amount specified for fresh turmeric. For this recipe, that would be approx 70g of turmeric powder.

METHOD:

1. In a frying pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Add sliced turmeric, ginger, and cracked pepper, and sauté for approximately 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Transfer the warm turmeric mixture to a food processor or thermomix. Add lemon juice and an extra tablespoon of coconut oil. Blend until it forms a smooth puree. If the mixture is too thick, add filtered water gradually, up to 1/2 cup (125ml), to achieve the desired consistency. Add cinnamon and fennel seeds, and blend again.
3. Once the mixture has cooled, stir in the honey until it forms a golden paste.
4. Spoon approximately 200g of the paste into each jar. 
5. Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge, where it will keep well for at least 2 weeks.

RECIPE NOTES:

• Colour Variation: The colour of the paste may vary depending on the turmeric and ginger used, ranging from bright yellow to brown.
• Golden Milk Recipe: To prepare Golden Milk, warm 1 cup of your preferred milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the turmeric remedy paste and stir until warm. If desired, strain through a sieve to remove any sediment, though consuming the paste with the milk is recommended for optimal nutritional benefits.
• Don’t forget this makes approximately 3 jars and freezes well, perfect to prepare ahead of Postpartum or to gift!