Jamu Juice
A vibrant, golden-hued drink bursting with flavor and health benefits, perfect for boosting wellness during the chilly seasons.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 100 g fresh turmeric root, scrubbed and thinly sliced
- 50 g fresh ginger root, scrubbed and thinly sliced
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste or ¼ cup seedless tamarind pulp, soaked in warm water and strained (optional) Optional for added flavor.
- 2 lemons or 4 small limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, to taste Adjust based on personal preference.
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Enhances the bioavailability of curcumin in turmeric.
- a small pinch of pink salt (optional) Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by scrubbing the fresh turmeric and ginger roots thoroughly. Slice them thinly to maximize the infusion of flavor.
Simmering
- In a saucepan, combine the sliced turmeric, ginger, and 3 cups of water. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it brew for about 15-20 minutes.
- Tip: You can roast the turmeric and ginger for a deeper flavor before adding them to the saucepan.
Blending
- After simmering, let the mixture cool slightly. Pour it into a blender along with the remaining 1 cup of water, tamarind (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
Straining
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or pitcher.
Adding Flavor
- Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice and sweetener to taste. Adjust to your preference.
Chilling and Serving
- Transfer the Jamu Juice to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1-2 hours. Before serving, give it a good shake.
- Serve chilled, ideally garnished with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint.
Notes
Jamu Juice is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It can be frozen in ice cube trays for later use in smoothies.