Ginger Kashayam
Kashayam is an Ayurvedic concept, a water based herb/root infusion brewed somewhat like a tea and drunk hot. There are various combinations we make at home for different purposes. Usually, kashayams are taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach for maximum benefit.
Here is a simple recipe for a Ginger Kashayam. I’m a big fan of this because it requires only four easily available ingredients. This kashayam helps relieve digestive discomfort, flu symptoms, boosts immunity and has an overall positive effect on health.
Ingredients
Ginger – 5 cm piece
Whole black pepper – 1 tablespoon
Dry/fresh turmeric – 5 cm piece
Honey – 1 tablespoon
Water – 300 ml
Yield
150 ml (serving size – 75 ml)
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
30 minutes
Method
1) Wash and peel the ginger. If you are using fresh turmeric, then peel that as well.
2) Toast your peppercorns in a dry pan on low to medium heat for about 3-4 mins until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Give them a stir a few times.
3) Then, crush the peppercorns, ginger and turmeric coarsely using a mortar and pestle.
4) In a pan, start heating the crushed pepper, ginger and turmeric with 300 ml water and on a medium flame.
5) Once it starts to boil, immediately bring the heat to a minimum and let it continue to simmer in very low heat.
5) The ginger kashayam should reduce to approximately half the original quantity of water. This will take nearly 25 minutes. Now once the quantity has reduced to half, switch off the stove and cover the pan till it stops boiling.
6) After five minutes strain the kashayam and add honey. Mix well and serve hot.
Notes
- Always simmer kashayam at low heat so you can get a strong infusion.
- This kashayam is quite strong because the ginger and pepper pack a punch. Expect a good spice level! If you can tolerate this level of spice have it as it is like a shot. But if you find it difficult, add some more honey or hot water to dilute it. A tablespoon of whole milk can also be added to the infusion to reduce the spice level.
- Ideally the serving size per person (above the age of 10) is roughly around 75 to 100 ml. However children from the age of 5 to 10 can be given 10 to 20 ml per serving.
- You can use the dregs to make a dilute tea, don’t throw it away! This can be had once in the night before going to bed.
Disclaimer: This recipe is not intended as a cure for any ailment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website.
