Homemade Jamu: Turmeric Ginger Elixir
Jamu is a traditional Indonesian herbal drink, often made with turmeric and ginger, known for its warming spices and health-boosting properties. This concentrate offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits in a delicious, versatile beverage.
Ingredients
- 4 cup water
- 1 cup fresh turmeric grated
- 0.5 cup fresh ginger grated
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup optional
- pinch black pepper optional
Instructions
- 1. Combine 4 cups of water, 1 cup of grated fresh turmeric, 1/2 cup of grated fresh ginger, and the optional black pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 2. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully infuse. If using, stir in the honey or maple syrup until dissolved.
- 3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the concentrate cool slightly. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the strained solids.
- 4. To enjoy a hot Jamu, mix 1-2 tablespoons of the concentrate with a cup of hot water. For a refreshing Jamu spritzer, combine 1-2 tablespoons of concentrate with cold water and ice, adding a squeeze of lime juice or a teaspoon of tamarind paste if desired.
Notes
For a sweeter Jamu, add honey, maple syrup, or palm sugar to taste during the simmering stage. You can also add a pinch of black pepper to the concentrate to enhance the absorption of turmeric's beneficial compounds. Store the concentrate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.