Haldi ka Doodh by

Madhu

“Cooking Up Feminism” participant Madhu chose to make a yellow-golden, Turmeric Milk that has been consumed in the Indian subcontinent for centuries. The west, having recently discovered the vast benefits of the turmeric spice, now sells this hot, healing tea as “Golden Milk.” It is common to find “Turmeric Lattes” at cafes across North American countries, and credit is often not attributed to the communities medicinal food practices have originated from. In fact, growing up in Pakistan, my own mother used to feed us “Haldi ka Doodh” (as Turmeric Milk is known in Hindi and Urdu) immediately after having a fall or injury. The reason for this, as Madhu also confirmed with us, is that our ancestors believed that turmeric has anti-inflammatory benefits and can be very helpful in the body’s healing process from bruising and pain.

Growing up I remember my mom making Haldi ka Doodh quite often for my siblings and I, to keep us away from colds and coughs, and also simply to boost our immunity. This tradition was passed on to her by my Nani, our grandmother. And thereafter I carried on the tradition of making Golden Milk. I look forward to making it, and drinking it, because it is so delicious. It feels healing to connect with my roots and carry on the traditions passed on to us generation after generation.

Haldi ka Doodh is a traditional Indian drink which has many anti-inflammatory healing properties. It is also antimicrobial, helps with digestive issues, can ease fatigue and joint pain. Haldi ka Doodh has its roots in Ayurveda, a natural system of medicine that originated in India more than 3,000 years ago.

Although one can enjoy drinking Haldi Ka Doodh at any time during the day, it is most effective when taken just before bedtime. Haldi ka Doodh also reduces stress and helps to improve sleep quality. It can be taken once a week, or more, depending on your needs.

~ Madhu

Ingredients

• 1½ cups of dairy or non-dairy milk

• 1 tsp of ground turmeric

• 1 tsp of freshly grated ginger or ¼ tsp ground ginger

• 1 cinnamon stick or ¼ ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp cardamom

• 1 clove (optional)

• 1 pinch of black pepper

• ½ tbsp coconut oil or desi ghee (optional)

• Sweetener of your choice

Instructions

• Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan

• Stir frequently on medium to low heat for about 3-4 mins

• Pour mixture in a cup through a strainer

• Serve hot

• Works best when taken before bedtime