At times of uncertainty, I believe in arming myself with immune-boosting foods such as turmeric, saffron, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and cinnamon. These spices, along with herbs including rosemary and oregano, strengthen the body’s resolve to fight infections and can easily be included in daily cooking. Infusions made with a combination of them can be the perfect drink to sip throughout the day to keep us hydrated.
Serves 2
ingredients
1 to 2 sticks cinnamon
2-inch piece of fresh ginger
2-inch piece of fresh turmeric
Pinch of saffron threads
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 teaspoon jaggery (optional)
Sprigs of oregano
Sprigs of rosemary
instructions
Combine cinnamon sticks, ginger, turmeric, saffron, black pepper, and jaggery (if using) with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat, cover and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes then turn the heat off.
Add the oregano and rosemary to the water and let the brew steep in the spices and herbs for another 15 to 20 minutes.
Strain and sip throughout the day.
Add more water to the spices and herbs and boil again for a double steep — the spices will continue to infuse flavor.
notes & variations
Jaggery is unrefined palm sugar — substitute with honey but be sure to add the honey after the brew has reached drinking temperature as honey denatures at high temperatures. Or substitute with maple syrup.
The longer the brew is boiled, the more concentrated the flavors will become, but if over extracted, the brew may become bitter.
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