This vegan-friendly Turmeric Smoothie with Kefir is an ice cold twist on Golden Milk. Drink it for the probiotics, for the health benefits, and for the delicious, peppery flavor.
Once again, my refrigerator is overflowing with milk kefir.
And so, as a remedy to my problem that isn't really much of a problem-- I've been making smoothies. (And kefir ice cream.)
And as someone who only has a little, tiny sweet tooth-- I wanted a savory smoothie option. And I wanted it to be healthy.
This savory Turmeric Smoothie with Kefir is an icy cold twist on turmeric tea (or golden milk), and is packed with the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric AND the probiotics in milk kefir. And it's delicious!
What is Golden Milk?
Golden milk is another name for the Indian Turmeric Milk (or Turmeric Tea). Traditionally this drink is served hot, and is made with milk (or non-dairy milk) and spices.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a plant, and the turmeric that you'll see ground in the spice aisle is powder ground from the root of that plant. You might also find turmeric paste.
Turmeric is thought to have anti-inflammatory benefits, improve liver function, aid digestion, and act as a pain reliever. Be aware that it may also act as a blood thinner, and possibly stimulate contractions in pregnant women. Check with your doctor before using turmeric regularly as a dietary supplement.
What Does Turmeric Taste Like?
Turmeric is a bitter root, with scents of ginger and orange. Make sure to measure how much turmeric you're adding to your smoothie, because too much turmeric will ruin the drink.
Will This Turmeric Smoothie Stain My Blender?
Turmeric is bright yellow, and will stain anything it touches-- so handle it with care! (Be especially careful if you have porous countertops.)
When making this smoothie, make sure to rinse out your blender immediately-- especially if it has a plastic basin. So far, I haven't had any trouble with this smoothie staining my plastic Vitamix basin-- but I wouldn't risk letting the smoothie residue rest on the blender basin or lid.
You should also avoid drinking this smoothie out of plastic cups. Stick to glass cups, and rinse them out when you're done drinking.
Why Is There Black Pepper in this Turmeric Smoothie?
First and foremost-- it tastes delicious. The pepper rounds out the flavor of this spiced smoothie, and isn't overwhelming. (Even the husband, who is not a fan of black pepper, enjoyed the mildly peppery flavor.)
Also, black pepper is thought to increase your body's ability to absorb curcumin-- the anti-inflammatory compound found inside turmeric.
What is Milk Kefir?
Kefir is a probiotic-packed milk drink that can easily be found in both dairy and non-dairy forms at regular grocery stores. Find out more about it here: How to Make Milk Kefir.
How to Make a Turmeric Smoothie with Kefir (Golden Milk)
Simply blend everything together, clean up immediately, and drink. Enjoy this icy cold, savory turmeric smoothie as a healthy treat, or as a delicious way to beat the summer heat!
Want more TURMERIC recipe ideas? Try these:
Turmeric Smoothie with Kefir (Golden Milk)
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk kefir OR coconut milk kefir
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey, to taste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- pinch black pepper
- 4 ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Taste, and add more sweetener if desired.
- Pour smoothie into glass cups, and drink immediately.
- Leftovers / Make Ahead: Smoothies can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Sarah says
My allergies were killing me, and I've been drinking this smoothie. I'm not sure if that's what's helping with the allergies, but it sure is delicious!
Stef says
This sounds super good! And, thanks for answering the question about staining the Vitamix. I actually had wondered about that. Looking forward to giving this a try!
Amanda says
I love kefir and tumeric. I never thought to put them together to make a smoothie though. I need to make this asap since I usually have kefir in the house.
Lisa Lotts says
The subtle honeyed color of this smoothie is drawing me in. I use turmeric in my cooking all the time, but I've never used it in a smoothie, This one looks really inviting. Believe it or not, I've never actually tried Kefir, but I see it in the store all the time and I've always wondered. Is it like yogurt in a tangy way or more like buttermilk?
champagne-tastes says
It tastes a little like a cross between buttermilk and plain yogurt! Grab some and try it 😀
Kathy McDaniel says
Not only this smoothie is packed with probiotics and anti-inflammatory ingredients but it is also super creamy and delicious. I love the fact that it's a cold drink - that is perfect for the spring and summer months for sure.
Christine says
Love the idea of savory smoothies, and this is such a gorgeous color! I had no idea that coconut kefir was a thing until I saw it here as an option... I imagine it would taste really great in this!
Erik B. says
I take turmeric capsules daily. It has allowed me to stop taking my medication altogether. I also use it for cooking whenever it makes sense to. I also drink kefir periodically, usually goat kefir. I specifically googled kefir and turmeric and I saw this. It’s perfect! A great way to consume additional turmeric, and a perfect way to drink my kefir. Cheers!
Sarah Trenalone says
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!! Thanks for letting me know!
Dee says
I'm totally going to try this, and add a pinch of ginger as well for a kick!
Sarah Trenalone says
Yay! And I love that idea 😀
Darcy says
Just whipped this up with my homemade double fermented kefir and it’s so delicious! Thanks for the recipe!
Sarah Trenalone says
Yay!!! I’m so glad you loved it, thanks for letting me know!
Lynne Thomas says
Wouldn’t the antibacterial properties of the turmeric kill the good bacteria in the kefir?
Sarah Trenalone says
Hi Lynne,
We're not experts on this, but from what we've read, turmeric can also act as a prebiotic to improve the gut microbiome, so it seems likely that the kefir and turmeric would work together. See this article from Canadian Digestive Health Foundation and this from National Institute of Health.