Quick Turmeric Shots Recipe
Want some sunshine in a glass to start the day? Turmeric shots are a great choice! These little drinks are packed with flavorful ingredients that are sure to put some pep in your step.
Made with just turmeric, orange juice, and a pinch of black pepper, they’re not only simple to make but also full of flavor. Perfect for busy days, these shots are a simple way to start your morning feeling good!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Turmeric shots are a great addition to breakfast because they’re quick to make and pack a wake-you-up punch of flavor right when you need it. Start your day feeling energized and ready to take on whatever comes your way!
- Bold, zesty flavor: The warm, spicy flavor of black pepper and the refreshing citrus of orange balance perfectly with the earthy warmth of turmeric.
- Easy as 1-2-3: This turmeric shot recipe is super simple to make. All you have to do is blend a few fresh ingredients together, and you’re done in under 7 minutes!
- Prep Ahead: Make a batch of turmeric shots in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. That way, everyone can just grab and go on busy mornings.
- Control the ingredients: Want more juice or a bit of added sweetness? You’ve got it!
Ingredients for Turmeric Shots
This is just an overview. For full measurements and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card. It’s all there waiting for you!
You’ll only need a few simple ingredients for turmeric shots.
- Turmeric root: Look for a fresh root with a firm, smooth skin and vibrant orange color. Avoid any roots with dark spots or wrinkles. You can find turmeric root in the produce section, near the ginger root. (Turmeric root is usually straighter, while ginger root is more knobby.)
- Orange juice: Opt for freshly squeezed orange juice when possible, as it has the brightest flavor. Try to avoid juice from concentrate, choosing your preferred level of pulp.
- Black pepper: Use freshly ground pepper for the best flavor.
- Maple syrup (optional): Check the label, and it should say “100% pure maple syrup.” Avoid those that say “pancake syrup” or products with corn syrup—we want the real deal!
If you’re making your own orange juice, I recommend juicing just before making these shots. When buying oranges, pick one with a bright, rich orange color and feel heavy for its size. Use a manual juicer or a slow juicer to extract the juice for best flavor.
How To Make Turmeric Shots
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
First, prep your fresh turmeric root. Peel it using the edge of a spoon to gently scrape off the skin—it’s much easier and less wasteful than using a knife! Once peeled, chop it into small pieces..
Now, toss the turmeric into a high-powered blender along with the orange juice, water, maple syrup (if using), and black pepper.
Pro tip: Turmeric can stain your hands and countertops. I recommend wearing kitchen gloves and use a cutting board when working with it.
Step 2: Blend And Serve
Once everything is in, it’s time to blend! Turn the blender to a high-power setting, then blend everything until the mixture looks smooth and well combined. If it looks too thick, just add more orange juice, a little at a time, until you have the perfect consistency.
Once your turmeric shot mixture is blended, grab a few small shot glasses or small jars and pour the mixture in (a funnel can help here). Drink immediately or store in the fridge for later.
Tips and Variations
- Swap orange juice with pineapple juice or apple juice for a different flavor profile.
- Instead of maple syrup, you can use agave syrup, honey, or even a date for natural sweetness.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat, or add fresh ginger to make homemade ginger turmeric shots.
- Blend in a dash of cinnamon or a splash of coconut water for a flavor twist.
- For a low sugar-diet, skip the maple syrup entirely. You could add a pinch of stevia or monk fruit if you still want additional sweetener.
Do turmeric shots really work?
While turmeric shots aren’t a cure-all, they can be a great addition to your daily diet. According to Healthline, the curcumin in turmeric has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to fight a variety of health conditions. These include joint pain, arthritis, and oxidative stress.
Storage tips
These little shots are best enjoyed fresh, so take a moment to savor one right away!
If you’ve made extra, transfer them into airtight glass containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Small mason jars or other lidded glass jars in 2 to 4 ounces are perfect for this, but you can store in a larger jar and pour out servings as you like.
Be sure to give the mixture a quick shake before drinking.
Want to freeze turmeric shots for later? Pour into ice cube trays or other small silicone freezer trays and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and thaw overnight, or pop a frozen cube into a smoothie for a boost of flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve with maple walnut muffins, creamy banana oatmeal, or blueberry-topped yogurt toast for a balanced and nutritious breakfast.
Double your dose of turmeric and pair with turmeric coffee for a flavor-filled start to the day.
Quick Turmeric Shots Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons fresh turmeric root, about 1.5–2 inches
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ½ cup water
- Pinch ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, optional
Instructions
- Peel the turmeric root using a spoon to scrape off the skin.3 tablespoons fresh turmeric root
- Place the peeled turmeric, orange juice, water, black pepper, and maple syrup into a high-powered blender. Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more orange juice to reach your desired consistency.½ cup water, ¼ cup orange juice, Pinch ground black pepper, 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Divide the mixture into shot glasses or small jars. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use stevia or monk fruit in place of the maple syrup.
- Enjoy within 3 days, or freeze.
- Shake before drinking to re-mix ingredients.
Megan Myers has been sharing her favorite recipes online for 20 years. She has worked for companies like Whole Foods Market, Texas Co-Op Power, and Good Catch Foods. Her favorite breakfast food is waffles with plenty of maple syrup.