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Ginger & Turmeric Shots

I’ve always considered turmeric shots a recent marketing faff, the newest addition to the allures of a checkout amidst candy bars and scratch cards, but this time with a health promise. But it’s yet another example of how I’ve been misled by the industry and the backlash it has received. Most ginger shots bought at the shops are overly sweet, designed to trick us into coming back for more. Yet in their sweetness, they defy the very health promise they set out to make in the first place.

However, in its original concept, a ginger and turmeric shot is cleverly designed to deliver a dose of vitamins and beneficial compounds that can easily be absorbed by the body. The magic lies in the combination of ingredients: black pepper increases the absorption of curcumin by 2000%, the active compound in turmeric, while a small amount of extra virgin olive oil helps to digest these benefits of turmeric more easily. With added vitamin C from lemon and orange juice, this shot packs a punch of easily absorbed nutrients in one quick, zesty hit.

 

What are Ginger & Turmeric Shots?

Ginger & Turmeric Shots are small but powerful drinks that combine two of the most potent natural ingredients: ginger and turmeric. These anti-inflammatory shots are packed with antioxidants and are known for their health benefits, including boosting your immune system, supporting digestion and reducing inflammation. With their zingy, earthy flavour, homemade ginger turmeric shots are a quick and easy way to get a concentrated dose of vitamins and nutrients into your daily routine, especially when made fresh. They’re a favourite for anyone looking to add a natural health boost to their morning routine.

History of Ginger & Turmeric Shots

While ginger turmeric health shots may seem like a recent wellness trend, the use of ginger and turmeric for healing goes back thousands of years. Both ingredients have their origins in Southeast Asia and are staples in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Fresh ginger has been valued for its ability to ease digestion and reduce nausea, while fresh turmeric, with its distinctive golden hue, has been used for centuries to combat inflammation and support liver function. In recent years, these ancient remedies have been reimagined as immunity-boosting ginger turmeric shots, popular in juice bars and health cafes, offering a convenient way to tap into the power of natural medicine.

 

Ingredients You’ll Need & How to Substitute

Making ginger and turmeric shots at home is surprisingly easy, and it lets you control the quality and freshness of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Fresh organic ginger: Known for its spicy flavour and strong anti-inflammatory properties, ginger is key to these shots.
  • Organic unwaxed orange: A sweeter, less tangy option that still provides plenty of vitamin C and adds a refreshing flavour to the mix.
  • Organic unwaxed lemon: Adds a refreshing citrus tang and is rich in vitamin C, great for boosting immunity.
  • Black peppercorns: Essential for increasing the absorption of curcumin from the turmeric by up to 2000%.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: A small amount of extra virgin olive oil helps your body better absorb the curcumin from the turmeric.
  • Ground turmeric: This golden root is packed with curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation. You can also use 100g raw turmeric root for an even more intense health boost, though keep in mind that it might stain your blender. If that happens, leave the stained blender in the sunlight for 2-3 days and the stains will fade.
  • Water: Use coconut water instead of regular water for extra hydration and a touch of natural sweetness.

 

 

Health Benefits of Ginger & Turmeric shots

Turmeric

Turmeric is packed with curcumin, a potent compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help combat inflammation, boost brain function, and potentially improve heart health. Including turmeric in health shots is a quick and easy way to tap into these health benefits.

Ginger

Ginger is a powerhouse, thanks to a special compound called gingerol. This little hero packs a punch with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s known to be a friend to our digestion, a soother of muscle pains, and a reliever of nausea. Plus, it might even lend a hand in keeping our hearts healthy and guarding against chronic illnesses.

Lemon

They’re packed with vitamin C, which is a key player in boosting our immune system. The citric acid in lemons can help with digestion and detoxification. Plus, they’re a great source of antioxidants, which are known to combat cell damage. They also contain potassium, which is essential for heart health.

Black pepper

Pepper contains a compound called piperine, known to enhance the absorption of curcumin, a key active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin is poorly absorbed on its own, but when combined with piperine, its absorption can increase by up to 2000%.

So, when you add a dash of pepper to a dish with turmeric, you’re not only dialing up the flavor but also maximizing the health benefits of turmeric.

 

Daily Intake

It is recommended to keep your daily intake within 30-60 ml.

 

How to Make Ginger & Turmeric Shots (Step-by-Step)

Prep the ingredients. Wash the ginger, orange and lemon well under water.

Roughly chop the ginger, quarter the orange and lemon.

Then add them to the jug of a blender followed by the pepper, olive oil and 500 ml water.

Blend and strain. Blend as smooth as possible then strain through a sieve.

 Whisk in the turmeric until completely incorporated.

Serve. Lastly, filter the mix into 50 ml bottles.

Useful Tips
  • Wear gloves when handling turmeric. It stains everything yellow.
  • Use a strong blender to get the smoothest consistency, especially when working with fresh ginger and turmeric.
  • Make a big batch and store it in the fridge so you have your immune-boosting ginger shots ready for the week.
  • Liquid thickens overnight: This is normal. Simply dilute it with a little more water, give it a shake and adjust your serving size.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about these homemade ginger turmeric shots. First off, they’re quick and easy to make with just a few fresh ingredients. More importantly, they’re a natural way to boost your immune system, reduce inflammation and support overall wellness. Unlike the overly sweetened versions you’ll find in shops, you can adjust the sweetness and spice to your taste. Whether you’re looking to fight off a cold, increase your energy or simply add a health kick to your morning routine, these natural immune-boosting ginger shots are a delicious and effective way to feel your best.

How to Store Ginger & Turmeric Shots

A homemade ginger turmeric shot can typically be kept in the fridge for up to one week. To maintain the freshness and potency, store it in an airtight container or a glass bottle. Give the bottle a good shake before serving, as the ingredients may settle at the bottom. If you prefer to make larger batches and extend its shelf life, you can also freeze daily doses in ice cube trays and defrost as needed for a quick, convenient health boost any time of day. However, bear in mind that the health benefits wear down over time.

Tip: Don’t waste the leftover pulp. You can turn it into these Dark Chocolate Energy Balls.

**I receive a small commission from affiliate links on this page**

Ginger & Turmeric Shots

Packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ginger and turmeric are powerhouse ingredients known for their numerous health benefits. Whether you're aiming to boost your immune system, enhance digestion, or simply add a burst of natural energy to your day, these vibrant shots are the perfect addition to your daily regimen. Plus, they are super easy to prepare.
4.84 from 6 votes
Active Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 8

Equipment

Ingredients
 
 

  • 100 g fresh organic ginger
  • 1 organic unwaxed orange (140g)
  • 1 organic unwaxed lemon (140g)
  • ½ tsp black peppercorns
  • 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric

Instructions
 

  • Wash the ginger, orange and lemon well under water.
  • Roughly chop the ginger, quarter the orange and lemon. Then add them to the jug of a blender followed by the pepper, olive oil and 500 ml water. Blend as smooth as possible, then strain through a sieve and whisk in the turmeric before filtering it into 50 ml bottles. See tip for what to do with the pulp.

Notes

Storage: Keep in airtight bottle in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Tip: Don’t waste the leftover pulp. You can turn it into these Dark Chocolate Energy Balls.
Tried this recipe?Add a comment below.

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26 Comments

  1. Trent Best

    5 stars
    Nice thank you! Where did you get the storage shot glasses?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      I got them on Wares of Knutsford.

      Reply
  2. Helen

    Your recipe lists turmeric but your nargis doesn’t mention adding it to the ingredients as you’re making it. Am I missing something?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      Thanks for making me aware, that was a mistake. I’ve updated it now. You can blend it together with all the other ingredients, but it tends to stain the blender. So I usually whisk it in afterwards ☺️

      Reply
  3. Eleftheria

    4 stars
    I made this 2 days ago and it is very good but today the mixture has coagulated. It doesn’t smell bad. I stored all of it in an airtight glass container in the fridge. Maybe this is normal??

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      It has turned lumpy? If the mixture separated, that’s normal. But it shouldn’t coagulate/turn lumpy.

      Reply
      • Eleftheria

        Thank you!!

        Reply
        • Julius Fiedler

          Welcome!

          Reply
  4. Sue

    How must fresh turmeric would you suggest instead of powdered?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      50g-100g, I’d say. Careful, it might stain your blender. If that happens, you can leave the stained blender in the sunlight for 1-2 days and the stain will fade entirely.

      Reply
  5. Janet

    Hello,
    Can I add dandelion root to this? And if so do have a suggestion on how much according to your recipe?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      Interesting! I’ve never used it, unfortunately, but since it’s edible raw you should be able to add a little bit. I’d add 1/2 tsp to begin with and then take it from there based on flavour preference.

      Reply
  6. Melanie

    5 stars
    Made it, loved it and hoping it helps with arthritis and immune system.

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      Fingers crossed!!

      Reply
  7. Shital Botadra

    We add the orange and lemon with the skin to the blender?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      Yup, hence the need for organic ingredients. You’re straining it through a sieve afterwards.

      Reply
  8. Adrianna

    5 stars
    Nutrition information?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      I tried using nutrition information calculators, but wasn’t quite happy with their accuracy. Unfortunately, I can’t provide that information at the moment. Sorry!

      Reply
  9. Emily

    Can you freeze these?

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      Yes, the best way to do this is to freeze them in ice cube trays! You can then easily thaw a few ice cubes in a glass in the fridge.

      Reply
  10. Diane

    I can’t find the organic oranges and lemons. Is there a way I can just remove anything on the outside that would make it close

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      In that case, simply juice the oranges and lemons. It’s just that you don’t want any treatment residues when blending the whole citrus fruits.

      Reply
  11. Sarah

    5 stars
    Been making these for 2 months now (along with the energy balls). So easy, it’s become part of my weekly routine. I’ve substituted organic clementines when oranges aren’t available. Have recommended to all my friends. Thank you <3!

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      Oh amazing! That’s wonderful to hear. And great that you’re making the energy balls as well. Zero waste 💪

      Reply
  12. Karen

    5 stars
    I don’t think I’ve ever submitted a review for a recipe but I just had to for this one. I really appreciate that this recipe ties into the dark chocolate energy balls, making them zero food waste. I made a batch of these shots last night. I had a shot last night and this morning. The fresh one is thin enough to drink, this morning’s was thick so I added a little bit of water. I think I like it diluted better. I froze it into ice cubes since I don’t have very many small containers and will thaw them in advance. I’m impressed with how easy they were to make and I’m sure over time I will be receiving the health benefits. Thank you for sharing this recipe.

    Reply
    • Julius Fiedler

      I’m so glad to hear that, thank you for the kind review! ☺️ Yes, good point, they do thicken up a little and diluting it is a good solution. Also love the ice cube freezing trick. Enjoy the energy balls!

      Reply
4.84 from 6 votes

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