More ways to enjoy the magic of turmeric: Lentils and golden milk

Why are we so obsessed with turmeric? It all comes back to a bioactive compound called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

While short-term inflammation is important in fighting off intruders and repairing damage in the body, if it’s chronic, this can lead to health conditions such as heart disease and metabolic disease. Lucky for us, inflammation is no match for turmeric.

But what about that antioxidant factor? Well, oxidative damage— one source of aging and disease— happens when free radicals react with organic substances, proteins, and DNA in the body. Antioxidants provide protection from these free radicals. Basically, the chemical structure of curcumin acts as a free radical neutralizer. 

Enough science talk. You already know we love turmeric skincare products, but how else can you incorporate this super ingredient into your daily life? Here are a couple of our favorites ways.

Indian red lentils 

Turmeric is a popular ingredient in many cuisines, especially South Asian. A pinch or two of the powdered spice adds an orange color and an earthy, tangy taste. Today, let’s talk about an Indian staple: masoor dal, or red lentils. If you’ve never made it before, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

• Thoroughly rinse a cup of red lentils (or more, depending on how many servings you want!). Transfer to a large pot, add around 3 cups of water, and set the burner to medium heat. Once the water is boiling, turn down the heat to medium-low or low and add 1 tsp of turmeric and minced ginger, 1 tsp salt, and 1 sliced tomato.

• Feel free to add more water to maintain a soupy consistency.

• While the lentils continue to cook, chop 1 yellow onion, a hot pepper (or more), and a couple cloves of garlic.

• Heat a pan with oil on medium. Fry the onions until they are transparent, then add the garlic and hot peppers. Once the onions start to look brown— it’s time for more spice! Add a half teaspoon of garam masala, and a pinch of powdered red chili (optional). 

• Let all of these ingredients keep frying until the onions are nearly burnt. Then add to the dal, stir, top with cilantro, and voilà! 

• Serve it up with rice, roti, or naan.

Dal is the perfect meal for a lazy, chilly day. Plus, the health benefits of lentils paired with turmeric will make you glow from the inside out.

Golden milk

‘Tis the season of pumpkin spiced lattes and hot apple cider. Here’s another one to throw into the mix: golden milk. That’s right, turmeric is like Midas, everything it touches turns to gold. The soothing drink is a great choice for a typical fall or winter’s day when you’ve already maxed out on caffeine. Because of the anti-inflammatory benefits we mentioned, it’s also good for those days when you’re feeling under the weather and need a pick me up. To make 2 servings:

• Add 2 cups of milk, 1 tsp turmeric, a pinch of black pepper and cinnamon, and 1 tbsp of maple syrup to a pot over medium heat.

• Bring the liquid to a boil and then let it simmer for around 10 minutes.

• Serve it up.

Once you’ve made it a few times, you might get creative. Add ginger to prevent colds and prevent or soothe sore throats. For a richer taste, add a bit of coconut milk or oil.

Turmeric’s magic doesn’t have to be restricted to your fave skincare products. These simple recipes are a great way to enjoy the sunshine spice on the regular. Check back for more ideas from our team.

At Yellow Beauty, we’re here to help you glow. Our natural skin care products— from cleansers to face masks— are designed to be kind to your skin and the planet. We use wholesome ingredients that have been in style for centuries.

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