Jamu - Turmeric, Ginger and Tamarind Tonic

Jamu is an Indonesian health tonic made with turmeric, ginger and tamarind. Each of these natural ingredients have unique medicinal qualities. Combined together in this elixir, they provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic and immunity-boosting benefits. This warm and soothing drink also offers welcome relief, especially in cooler weather. I have been making a simple version at home for the past few years. Fresh turmeric is ideal, but you can use turmeric powder if that is easier to source. Jamu has a pleasant, earthy taste, similar to Sulaimani chai. 

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Recipe

Jamu

(Makes about 10 servings)

Ingredients 

4 cups filtered water 
2 tsp fresh turmeric paste (can be substituted with turmeric powder. Also, you might want to consider wearing gloves whilst handling fresh turmeric because it stains… take a closer look at my fingers in the photo above!)
1” piece ginger 
Pinch of pepper and salt 
3 tbsp tamarind pulp
2 tbsp jaggery/raw honey
Juice of a lime

Method

Boil the water with the turmeric, ginger, pepper and salt. Once it reaches a boil, lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

 Stir in the tamarind pulp and jaggery. Continue to simmer for 5 more minutes. 

Remove from heat. Squeeze in the lime juice. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. 

Strain and serve warm in shot glasses.