====== Turmeric Tea with Black Pepper ======

===== Ingredients =====
  * 1¼ cups water
  * ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  * 1 small pinch freshly ground black pepper
  * ½ to 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional)
  * 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, coconut milk, or plant milk (optional)
  * 1 to 2 teaspoons honey, to taste
  * 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

===== Procedure =====
    - Add the water, turmeric, black pepper and ginger to a small saucepan.
    - Bring to a gentle simmer.
    - Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    - Add milk or coconut milk during the final minute, if using.
    - Strain into a mug if using fresh ginger, or leave unstrained if preferred.
    - Allow the tea to cool slightly.
    - Stir in honey and lemon juice to taste.
    - Stir again before drinking, as the turmeric will settle at the bottom of the mug.

===== Notes =====
Black pepper is included because it contains piperine, which can improve the absorption of curcumin, a naturally occurring compound in turmeric. Only a small pinch is needed—the tea should be warming rather than strongly peppery.

A little milk, coconut milk, or another source of fat is optional. It makes the tea creamier and is commonly included because curcumin is fat-soluble.

For a milder everyday tea, use ¼ teaspoon turmeric and a very small pinch of black pepper. If it causes reflux or stomach irritation, reduce the pepper or drink it with food.

Serve.

Hot, with honey and lemon adjusted to taste.

 --- //Robert Zamperoni//

{{tag>tea}}