and a happy new year…

What will the year bring? I know what I’m hoping for but who can really say?

If you follow other food blogs and newspaper food articles, never mind the food channels on tv I’m sure you see evolving trends. Seems, among other things, that turmeric is the new be-all and end-all.

Until recently, turmeric was sneered at as the poor man’s saffron, a way of turning everything it touched a bright yellow. Now, however, it is all the rage.

Understand, please, that I am not a doctor and I am not recommending this latest best addition to almost everything as part of your daily food plan. Check with your own doctor before changing how you eat! But there does seem to be proof of certain anti-inflamatory properties to this wonder spice.

Me, I just think its pretty. I like the color in rice and pasta. And I don’t see harm in adding a pinch of it to my morning smoothie. I also add Chinese 5-spice since one of the 5 is black pepper and it seems that black pepper helps the body make the most of all the benefits of turmeric. And I love the kick of the ginger and other spices.

I’ve long been a fan of the morning smoothie. I’ve never been an egg in the morning person. I like a breakfast I can transport if necessary, or that I can sip and savor slowly. Don’t rush me!

In case you’re interested, here’s how I start my day (and how I started my year, in fact)

Up and at ’em Smoothie

1 banana
3/4 cup milk (nut milk is fine)
1 T pickled ginger*
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp Chinese 5-spice
1 tbsp chocolate syrup (optional, certainly)

Put all in a blender. Blend until smooth. Enjoy!

*The pickled ginger is that curious pink stuff that comes with sushi. I love it. If you can’t find it easily you can substitute 1 tsp ground ginger.

That’s all there is to it! It takes longer to clean the blender than it does to make the smoothie.

Best to all for a safe, happy, healthy new year!

Advertisement