Hot drinks for the rainy season

Luy-a or Ginger Tea

Ginger is an amazing Southeast Asian plant – this vibrant yellow root crop holds so many powerful benefits. It is spicy, and packs a powerful punch of flavor. It is so versatile – lending itself to flavoring many dishes to making a robust yet light and soothing tea. It is not only used as a spice, but also as a medicine. It can be found in many forms: such as dried, powered, fresh, juiced, or in oil form.

Ginger combats inflammation, which is why it is a great supplement for those suffering from chronic illnesses that are associated with chronic inflammation (such as arthritis, diverticulosis, and heart disease). As a hot tea drink, it is also a good body-warmer.

Sikwate

Sikwate is among the Philippine’s most popular hot drink. It’s actually a chocolate drink made from native cacao. Dried cacao seeds are ground to make “tableya,” the chocolate blocks used in famous Filipino version of thick hot chocolate drink.  Sikwate is best prepared using a “batirol” and a “tsokolatera,” to achieve a smooth consistency. A “batirol” is a wooden whisk used to mix “tableya” and water into a thick, grainy, hot chocolate drink. The “tableya” and water are mixed in a cast-iron pitcher called a “tsokolatera.” Hot sikwate is a popular drink all year round – but most especially during the rainy days.

Hot Spiced Cashew-Coconut Milk

Sometimes the most delightful comforts come out of the simplest of ingredients.  The lightly sweetened and rich coconut and cashew milk base showcases that winning flavor combination of cinnamon and ginger with a pleasant nose, thanks to the addition of vanilla.

Smooth, rich, and creamy, it has just enough sweetness, but not nearly enough to be cloying.  One large medium date can makes it sweet enough, but honey may be used instead if preferred.  It has a soothing creaminess without it being overpoweringly rich.

Hot Caramel Latte

Ingredients: 30 ml coffee shot, 180 ml hot milk, 15 ml caramel sauce and 15 ml vanilla powder

Caramel sauce is added to a fresh hot coffee shot. Then vanilla powder is added in and the whole thing is mixed well. Then hot milk with a little amount of froth is added in. For garnishing, caramel sauce or cocoa powder may be added on top.

A tall glass of this is good to have on a rainy day.

Apple-Pie Spiced Cider

The cider may be added with the same spices used in a pie – cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Then the mix is heated up for a good rainy-day drink.

Chai Tea with Soy Milk

Chai tea has been a favorite refreshment in India for centuries. Essentially a blend of tea, ground spices, honey, and milk, it can be enjoyed hot or cold. Cow’s milk or soy milk may be used. (FREEMAN)