This homemade ginger turmeric shot recipe proves that good things do come in small packages (and with small price tags!). Seriously, just a quick, potent hit of fresh ginger and turmeric can help boost your energy, fight off inflammation, and give your immune system a solid foundation. The truly best part, though? You can make almost a week's worth in under 10 minutes!
For generations, ginger and turmeric are traditionally used for several Ayurvedic remedies, and they have been part of my culture for as long as I can remember. I swear, anytime someone sneezed or coughed, there was a ginger turmeric tonic ready within minutes.
If you love nutrient-packed wellness recipes, try my Lemon Smoothie, Green Detox Smoothie, Plum Juice, or Kale Tonic - these are very refreshing, hydrating, and also immune supporting.
Ginger Turmeric Shot Benefits
The combination of the two roots make a natural, energizing wellness shot that keeps you glowing from the inside out. (Source: Healthline)
- Immunity: Together, both roots are full of antioxidants that strengthen your immune system to help you fight off all the seasonal sniffles - especially during cold and flu season.
- Digestion: Ginger helps with bloating, while turmeric supports detox and liver health.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm inflammation as both roots are full of antioxidants.
Ingredient & Substitution Notes
Here's a breakdown of everything you'll need to make this ginger turmeric shot.
- Orange: I like to add orange zest and the juice for a more concentrated citrus flavor. My prefer using navel oranges when making this recipe.
- Lemon: If you don't have any lemons on hand, replace them with limes.
- Turmeric: Packed with curcumin - the compound that gives the anti-inflammatory benefits. While fresh turmeric is best, turmeric powder will work in a pinch. Use ⅓-teaspoon turmeric powder for every 1-inch piece of root.
- Ginger: Similarly, you can use ground ginger instead of fresh ginger. Use ¼-teaspoon ground ginger per 1-inch piece of fresh ginger.
- Black Peppercorn: Studies show that pairing turmeric with black pepper can increase curcumin absorption dramatically for that deeper anti-inflammatory effect. (Source: Healthline)
- Olive or Coconut Oil: Healthy fat helps your body absorb turmeric’s nutrients effectively.
Pro tip: Always pair turmeric, black pepper, and healthy fats (like olive oil or coconut oil) for better absorption. (Source: Harvard Health)
How to Make a Ginger Turmeric Shot (No Juicer Needed)
It's super quick and easy to whip up one of these ginger turmeric wellness shots whenever needed! Just follow my tips and tricks for the best results.
Preparation
Wash, rinse and pat dry the ginger and turmeric (there’s no need to peel the roots, if they are organic). Use a fine grater to remove the colorful part of the orange peel, avoiding the bitter white pith. Then, carefully remove the white pith of the orange using a paring knife (discard the pith). Finally, squeeze out the juice from the lemon.
Step 1: Add the peeled orange, orange zest, turmeric, ginger, lemon juice, and all the remaining ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl or large measuring jug. Use the back of a spoon to press out as much juice as possible. You can also use a nut milk bag for an ultra-smooth texture (just remember turmeric stains!).
Step 3: To serve immediately - pour your ginger turmeric shot into shot glasses and garnish with crushed peppercorn. To freeze - pour into 2-ounce, airtight glass bottles.
Pro tip: Label and date the bottles before freezing. Make sure to transfer from freezer to refrigerator the night before to thaw. Shake before drinking.
Cleanup & Stain Tips
Turmeric can stain, but it’s worth it. Here’s how I deal with it:
- Blend smart: Lay a towel under your blender to catch any splatters.
- Rinse right away: Warm water and lemon work wonders before the color sets.
- Countertops: Use baking-soda paste and vinegar.
- Hands: Rub with coconut oil before washing.
- Fabrics: Soak in cold water and vinegar - leave it in the sun for the day.
Reuse the Pulp (Zero-Waste Hack)
Don’t toss that pulp! It’s full of flavor and nutrients. Here some how to reuse it:
- Brew Tea: Infuse the pulp in hot water, and then brew with your preferred loose leaf tea.
- Blend into Smoothies: Add it to your fruit smoothies for a subtle spicy-citrus kick.
- Mix into Soups or Curries: Toss it in your soups or curries for flavor depth.
- DIY Face Mask: Mix with coconut yogurt or aloe gel (patch-test first).
If you’re not ready to reuse it, freeze the pulp in ice cube trays for later.
Is It Safe to Drink Every Day?
For most people, a 1-2 ounce ginger turmeric shot each morning is totally fine. I’ve been doing it for years - especially through fall and winter - it keeps me feeling balanced.
That said, turmeric and ginger are strong! If you’re taking medications (especially blood thinners or diabetes meds) or if you’re pregnant, check with your healthcare provider first.
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional - just someone who’s grown up using these roots for generations.
Storage & Freezing Guide
- Fridge: Refrigerate for 2-3 days, and portion out single servings each morning for a healthy start to your day.
- Freezer: You can make a large batch and freeze up to 3 months in sealed bottles or ice cube trays. Let each one thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can you freeze ginger turmeric shots? Absolutely. Freezing keeps most nutrients intact - vitamin C may dip slightly, but curcumin and antioxidants hold up beautifully.
Pro tip: Freeze right after blending and thaw overnight as needed. Avoid heating - it weakens vitamin C and flavor.
Shake Before Serving: The spice settles, so give it a quick shake before drinking.
Flavor Variations
- Pineapple Turmeric Ginger Shot: Replace the orange with some fresh pineapples chunks for natural sweetness and tropical flavors.
- Carrot Orange Turmeric Shot: Increase the antioxidant power by adding fresh carrots for an earthy and bright taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add a small pinch of cayenne pepper, or slightly increase the black pepper.
- Kid-Friendly: Dilute the ginger and turmeric with extra orange juice and skip the pepper. My girls call it “spicy orange juice” and think it’s fun to sip.
FAQ
It won’t melt fat, but it is known to help with bloating and inflammation.
Yes, but you may want to reduce the black pepper, ginger and turmeric slightly - if they find it too strong. Or you can add more orange juice for a sweeter taste, and to help dilute the spicy flavors.
Yes! You can add any ingredients you want to make this recipe your own. Some other popular choices include cayenne pepper and apple cider vinegar.
Turmeric’s earthy and grounding; ginger’s bright and spicy.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this ginger turmeric shot, you’ll probably love these other fresh, bright, and feel-good recipes for your wellness routine.
Fresh Ginger Turmeric Shots - Immunity Boost Recipe
DESCRIPTION
EQUIPMENT
- 1 High Speed Blender to blend the ingredients
- Fine Grater to grate the zest
- Paring Knife to remove the white pith
- Fine Mesh Sieve to strain the mixture
- 2 ounce shot glasses to serve and drink immediately
- Air-tight Bottles to freezer for later use
INGREDIENTS
- 1 whole navel orange peeled
- 4 tbs lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2-inch piece turmeric root (organic) or ⅓ teaspoon turmeric powder for every 1" piece of the root
- 2-inch piece ginger root (organic) or ¼ teaspoon ginger powder for every 1" piece of the root
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorn
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil optional
METHOD
Preparation
- Wash the ginger and turmeric thoroughly, and then pat dry. Note: No need to peel the ginger and turmeric, if using organic roots.
- Use a fine grater to zest the orange without going too deep into the white pith. Then use a paring knife to carefully peel the orange deep enough to remove the pith.Note: If you are using an orange with seeds, then make sure to remove the seeds.
- Use a citrus squeezer to remove the juice of the lemon(s).
Blend Everything
- Add all the prepared ingredients (water, orange zest, peeled orange, lemon juice, ginger, turmeric, black peppercorn, and oil) into your high-speed blender.
- Blend for 45-60 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. There should be no visible chunks.
Strain the Shot Mixture
- Place a fine mesh sieve or a nut milk bag over a large bowl or measuring cup. Note: I prefer a stainless steel sieve, since turmeric stains quickly.
- Slowly pour the blended mixture through the sieve/bag. Use the back of a spoon to press down on the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible. Note: If using a sieve, then squeeze the liquid out with your hands until the last drops of liquid are released.
Serve or Chill
- Pour the strained liquid into small, 2 ounce shot glasses. Or pour them in individually sealed airtight glass bottles for later use.
NOTES
- Fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh ginger and turmeric. This will also provide the most health benefits.
- Strain the Shot: Strain the ingredients so your ginger turmeric shot is extra smooth. You can use a fine-mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or nut milk bag.
- Zest Before Juicing: Always zest your citrus before cutting and juicing to make the process easier and maximize flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness:If you find the shot too strong, blend in a pitted date, maple syrup, or a bit of coconut water for a more balanced taste.
- Drink immediately: For the freshest flavor, I suggest drinking this ginger turmeric shot recipe immediately after making it.
- Shake Before Serving: If you're making this ginger turmeric shot in advance, quickly shake it before drinking since natural separation occurs.
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