This delicious, ancient elixir originates from the island of Java, in Indonesia.
Jamu has been healing people for over a millennium. Originating from the royalty of Java, it is a mix of herbs, roots and spices such as turmeric, ginger and black pepper. It is known for balancing the mind, body and spirit. Enjoy my homemade Jamu recipe to prevent (or cure) colds and flu.
ANCIENT JAMU ELIXIR
INGREDIENTS
1 big pot of spring water
1 lb ginger root, grated or smashed
1 lb turmeric root, grated or smashed
1 handful of tamarind pods, peeled or 4 tablespoons of unsweetened tamarind paste
4-5 oranges, flesh and juice (orange peels optional for aroma)
2 tablespoons of whole black peppercorn
2 lemons, squeezed
(Optional)
2 grapefruits, juice and flesh (rind optional)
1 teaspoon of honey
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Bring pot of water just to boiling. Reduce flame to lowest setting just before it boils.
2. Grate ginger and turmeric and add to pot.
3. Add tamarind to pot.
4. Add peppercorns to pot.
5. Add oranges, lemon and grapefruit to pot.
6. Optional: add rinds to pot.
7. Simmer on low (do not let go to rolling boil) for upwards of 20 to 30 minutes minimum. The longer it is, the stronger the taste.
8. Strain and serve with a teaspoon of wild honey.
You may reboil the roots several times. Please note that you may want to dilute the tea after its first brew.
Have faith in this thousands of years old elixir– it has healed many of my colds and flu. It never disappoints!
Thank you, ancient Javanese culture!
With gratitude,
Claire
