Maca Turmeric Latte

Not being able to drink caffeine can be so sad and lonely. You know those days where you really just need a big fat cup of coffee to keep you going? Or those cold mornings where a warm espresso is there to help lure you out of your cozy bed? Well don't take it for granted that you are able to enjoy those simple pleasures! One cup of caffeinated beverage sends me straight back to bed with a headache like a hangover an a stomach ache to match. I thought I was doomed to be an herbal tea drinker for life, but winter leaves me desperate for some warm creamy drinks that help fulfill that deep dark hole of decaffeinated doom, and I think I've finally perfected a few.

One of the superfoods I've been wanting to try is Maca, as it is a caffeine-free source of energy. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, which makes it a natural mood booster. (This is sounding better than caffeine already!) It has an earthy taste, but it is complemented quite well in this recipe by the spicy turmeric and sweet cinnamon. The combination is a bold flavor for the adventurous palette.

Using aromatic spices like these have tons of health benefits as well. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and cinnamon suppresses appetite. Ginger of course soothes the digestive tract, and cardamom, a relative of both Turmeric and Ginger, is also great for digestion and lowering blood pressure (unlike caffeine). All of these spices are great for overall good health!

Maca Turmeric Latte

2 T raw pecans
1 t maca powder
1/2 t turmeric powder
1/2 t cinnamon
Dash of cardamom
Dash of ginger powder
3 T coconut sugar

Put all ingredients in blender. Add 2 cups hot water and blend on high until combined and creamy. Or use cold water and serve over ice.