There’s something that feels SO FREAKING GOOD about starting my day with a vibrant AND tasty ginger + turmeric shot. You can see and feel the health in the moment; a ritual that is a moment of connection with myself and my own personal well-being. In the quiet of the morning, when I blend together these strong flavors I know to be beneficial, I feel a sense of intention, a commitment to nourishing my body and mind…and I’m OBSESSED!!!!
This simple shot has become my daily anchor, a reminder that small, consistent choices can have a huge effect on my entire day. Knowing I’m getting some kind of benefit from each ingredient working together helps me make healthier choices throughout the day. It’s like a gentle nudge in the right direction, a reminder that I’ve already invested in my well-being, so why not continue?? Because I am easily swayed to make sugar-y, less healthy choices, the ones you know will make me feel like poop later.
My Morning Shot: The Ingredients and Their Magic (I Google’d them)
- Ginger Root: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Soothes the digestive system, reduces nausea, and can maybe even ease muscle soreness. I’m addicted.
- Ground Turmeric: beautiful vibrant golden hue, turmeric’s makeup is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, supporting joint health and overall cellular function.
- Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice: A burst of vitamin C and citric acid, lemon juice alkalizes the body, aids digestion, and boosts the immune system. A jolt on energy for the senses!
- Mandarin Orange: Adding a touch of sweetness, mandarin oranges provide Vitamin C, and other antioxidants. It makes the shot more enjoyable I think.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of healthy fat is crucial for the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric. It also adds a smooth, silky texture, but without noticing the olive oil taste because of the other strong ingredients.
- Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Piperine, found in black pepper, enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, making it more effective. I almost left this ingredient out because I’ve had shots in the past with WAY too much making it too spicy to drink and I was afraid I’d add too much. So far I haven’t had that problem at all.
Beyond the Shot
It’s not just about the physical benefits, though I hope to notice some with continued use! I’ve had this shot about five times so far and I’m really just enjoying it for the flavor- and it’s the mental and emotional boost that truly makes a difference. When I start my day with this intentional act of self-care, I feel more grounded, centered, and ready to tackle whatever comes my way!!! The knowledge that I’ve already nourished my body encourages me to make better choices throughout the day. I’m more likely to reach for a healthy lunch, stay hydrated, and prioritize movement. It’s as if the shot sets the tone for a day of mindful living.
A Simple Ritual, Profound Impact
This ginger turmeric shot isn’t just a recipe; it’s a ritual, a moment of connection, and a catalyst for healthier choices. It’s a reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, all it takes is a small, potent shot of goodness to set the stage for a day of radiant well-being.
Recipe adapted from Minimalist Baker’s version – my version is a single serving. I looked at several recipes and landed on this one because the ingredients are simple and I had them on hand already, my favorite kinds of recipes! I don’t use as much lemon and the MB recipe, and I don’t measure my ingredients because I’m usually lazy- no measuring no dishes cool with me. Also, I use an immersion blender and a mesh strainer instead of a juicer or regular blender.
- Gather all ingredients plus a tall cup, immersion blender, and mesh strainer. (or just use a blender)
- To the cup add the chopped, peeled ginger, lemon juice (over a mesh strainer to catch the seeds) and a whole mandarin.
- Add a dash or two of ground turmeric, olive oil, and two “twists” of black pepper if using a standard pepper mill.
- I use an immersion blender to pulse and blend the ingredients until I get a super smooth consistency – BUT there will still be some mandarin chunks left over.
- I place the mesh strainer over the cup I’m going to drink from (I use a special tea cup), and pour the liquid in, pressing down on the mandarin chunks to squeeze out any and all juice.
- I like to add an ice cube to the shot, it makes it even more refreshing! It’s so tasty I always wish I had more to sip on when it’s gone, but I know I’m getting what I need from this small amount!
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