If you’re looking for a comforting and healthful drink, consider trying a homemade spiced clove beverage. This easy-to-make recipe not only offers a delightful taste but also packs several health benefits, thanks to the powerful combination of cloves, malt, and skimmed milk. Here’s how you can prepare this soothing drink and enjoy it best 30 minutes before your meals.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Cloves:
- Cloves are highly prized for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They also aid in digestion and can help combat nausea and indigestion.
- Malt:
- Malt provides a rich source of B-vitamins and essential amino acids that enhance energy. It’s also a good carbohydrate that can help manage blood sugar levels.
- Skimmed Milk:
- Skimmed milk is low in fat and high in calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
Recipe for Spiced Clove Beverage
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of whole cloves
- 4 cups of water
- 1 cup of malt beverage
- 1 cup of skimmed milk
Instructions:
- Boil the Cloves:
- Place the cloves in a saucepan with the water.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat. Let it simmer until the water becomes infused with the cloves and changes color. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Once the clove water has changed color, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Strain the cloves out of the water using a fine sieve or cloth to capture all the bits.
- Add Malt and Milk:
- Return the strained clove-infused water to the saucepan.
- Add the malt beverage and skimmed milk to the clove water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Warm the Beverage:
- Heat the mixture gently until it’s warm but not boiling.
- Serve:
- Pour the warm spiced clove beverage into a cup.
- Best Time to Drink:
- For optimal digestive benefits, drink this beverage warm, about 30 minutes before your meal.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Sweeten Wisely: If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or a sugar substitute.
- Spice Variations: You can also add a stick of cinnamon or a few cardamom pods during the boiling process for extra flavor.
- Storage: If you make a large batch, you can store the clove-infused water in the refrigerator and simply add malt and milk when needed.
Conclusion
This spiced clove beverage is more than just a warm drink—it’s a healthful concoction that can enhance your digestive health, provide essential nutrients, and offer a comforting, aromatic experience. Whether you start your day with it or enjoy it before meals, it’s a delightful addition to a healthy lifestyle.
