Jamu Juice Recipe saved my mornings when coffee felt too heavy and my body wanted something bright and clean. Maybe you’re here because your throat is scratchy, or your digestion has been a little meh, or you just need a simple daily ritual that feels good. I’ve been making this Indonesian turmeric ginger drink at home for years, and it truly fits all those moments. It’s comforting when warm, refreshing when chilled, and easy enough for busy weekdays. Today I’m sharing exactly how I make it, plus tips to make it yours.
Table of Contents
What is Jamu?
Jamu is a traditional Indonesian herbal drink made with turmeric, ginger, and often tamarind, honey, and lime. You’ll see bright golden bottles sold by street vendors and in markets across Indonesia. It’s beloved for its soothing, warming qualities and that earthy kick from fresh turmeric. People drink it for general wellness and to feel balanced. While it isn’t a medical cure, it can be a thoughtful part of a daily routine, like a gentle nudge toward feeling better from the inside out.
What I love most is how flexible it is. No fussy cooking knowledge required. Just blend, simmer briefly, strain, and sip. If you’re new to the flavor of turmeric, start with a smaller amount and build up as your taste buds get used to it. The color alone makes it feel special, like sunrise in a glass.
One more thing: turmeric can stain. Wear an apron, use a cutting board you do not baby, and wipe spills right away. A bit of dish soap and lemon usually take care of any stubborn color.
How to make Jamu
Here’s my go to Jamu Juice Recipe that you can make in under 25 minutes. The taste is bright and cozy, with a mellow sweetness and a soft tang from lime or tamarind. You can drink it warm or cold, depending on your mood.
Ingredients
- Fresh turmeric root, about 4 inches, scrubbed
- Fresh ginger root, about 3 inches, scrubbed
- 4 cups water
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons lime juice or 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
- Pinch of black pepper, optional but helpful
- Pinch of sea salt, optional, to round the flavor
Equipment
A blender makes this easy, but a food processor or a strong grater will work in a pinch. You’ll also want a small pot for simmering and a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the pulp. If you plan to drink jamu often, a glass bottle or jar with a tight lid is handy.
Step by Step
- 1. Roughly chop the turmeric and ginger. No need to peel if the skins are thin and clean. Drop them into a blender with 2 cups of water and blend until fairly smooth.
- 2. Pour the mixture into a pot, add the remaining 2 cups of water, and bring it just to a simmer. Let it gently bubble for 10 minutes. This tames the bite and helps the flavors meld.
- 3. Remove from heat. Stir in honey or maple, start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you like. Add the lime juice or tamarind. Taste and adjust. I like a pinch of salt to make everything pop.
- 4. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or pitcher. Use a spoon to press out every last drop of liquid gold.
- 5. Drink warm right now or chill and sip later. Shake or stir before pouring, as natural sediment will settle.
Sweetener Options
Honey is classic and soothing, but maple syrup works for a vegan option. If you want no added sugar, skip the sweetener and serve with extra lime. A little sweetness smooths the edges, so even a teaspoon can help. If you are in the mood for a coffee treat later in the day, you might enjoy this creamy cold foam recipe as a tasty follow up to your morning jamu.
Tip: Add a pinch of black pepper to help your body absorb curcumin, the star compound in turmeric. It is optional, but I notice a difference in how satisfied I feel after sipping.
“I made a batch every three days for a month. My mornings felt steady, my throat stayed calm, and I looked forward to that warm cup more than I expected. It is like a reset button you can actually drink.”
What Does Jamu Taste Like?
Expect a peppery warmth from ginger and an earthy note from turmeric. It is bright and sunny, especially with lime or tamarind, and the sweetness is gentle rather than syrupy. The flavor can feel bold on the first sip, then it smooths into something comforting and round. Some days I drink it warm and it feels cozy, other days I pour it over ice for a zippy refresh. Either way, it finishes clean with just enough tang to make you want another sip.
Swaps and Substitutions
Fresh turmeric is awesome, but if you cannot find it, use 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of ground turmeric in place of the 4 inches of fresh. You can also make a blend, using a little fresh and a little powdered to hit that sweet spot you like.
No tamarind on hand? Lime juice does the job nicely with a mellow citrus lift. Lemon works too, though it reads a touch sweeter. If you prefer a lightly fruity version, replace one of the cups of water with coconut water, then skip added sweetener or reduce it, since coconut water brings its own sweetness.
Not into honey? Maple syrup or a splash of date syrup are lovely. I have also tried a tiny bit of coconut sugar, but stir well to dissolve. And if you’re sensitive to ginger, cut the amount by half and simmer a little longer so the heat is more whisper than shout.
More Delicious Drink Recipes!
If you are building a little at home drink ritual, add a fruity favorite like this beachy Bahama Mama tropical smoothie. It is my low stress weekend blender drink. For a cozy coffee companion on cooler mornings, my simple caramel latte recipe hits the spot with pantry friendly ingredients and zero fuss.
Storage, Meal Prep & Serving Ideas
- Refrigerator: Store jamu in a sealed jar for 3 to 4 days. Shake before pouring. The color and flavor stay vibrant.
- Freezer: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Pop a few cubes into water or tea for quick sips during the week.
- Warm or Iced: Heat gently for a soothing mug on chilly mornings, or serve over ice with a slice of lime.
- Spice It Up: Add a thin slice of fresh black peppercorn or a tiny pinch of ground pepper for absorption support.
- Midday Reset: I keep a small bottle at my desk. A few sips help me push through the afternoon slump without grabbing another coffee.
- Stain Savvy: Turmeric can tint light surfaces and fabrics. Rinse tools right after use and use a designated yellow cutting board.
Is Jamu Juice Good for Weight Loss?
Short answer: it can help, but it is not a magic fix. This Jamu Juice Recipe is low in calories, hydrating, and tends to curb snacky cravings for me because it feels satisfying. The spices can make you feel warm and awake, which sometimes leads to better choices during the day. If weight loss is your goal, use minimal sweetener and pair jamu with balanced meals, movement, and enough sleep.
I see jamu as a supportive habit. It is a small, steady step that can replace sugary drinks. It also nudges you to prioritize gentle self care. That matters more than any single ingredient.
Common Questions
Do I have to peel the turmeric and ginger?
Not always. If the skin is thin and clean, just scrub well. Peel if it is tough or if you prefer a smoother flavor.
Can I make jamu without a blender?
Yes. Grate the turmeric and ginger by hand, simmer in water for 15 minutes, then strain. It takes a bit longer but works fine.
How much should I drink?
Start with half a cup and see how you feel. I usually sip 6 to 8 ounces once a day. Listen to your body and adjust.
Can kids drink it?
Many families enjoy a lightly sweet, mild version. Go easy on the ginger and skip black pepper for little ones. When in doubt, check with your pediatrician.
What if I only have powdered spices?
Use 1 to 1.5 teaspoons ground turmeric and 0.5 to 1 teaspoon ground ginger. Simmer a few extra minutes, then strain with cheesecloth for the smoothest texture.
A Friendly Wrap Up You Can Sip
Grab your blender, some ginger and turmeric, and make a batch of this Jamu Juice Recipe. It is simple, sunny, and friendly to your schedule. If you want more background and ideas, my pinterest page is helpful and inspiring. Try a glass warm in the morning, chill the rest for later, and see how it fits into your week. I hope this becomes your new feel good ritual, one bright sip at a time.
Print
Jamu Juice
A traditional Indonesian turmeric ginger drink that refreshes and soothes, perfect for any time of the day.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- Fresh turmeric root, about 4 inches, scrubbed
- Fresh ginger root, about 3 inches, scrubbed
- 4 cups water
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons lime juice or 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Roughly chop the turmeric and ginger. No need to peel if the skins are thin and clean. Blend with 2 cups of water until fairly smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a pot, add the remaining 2 cups of water, and bring to a simmer. Let it gently bubble for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in honey or maple (start with 1 tablespoon), and add lime juice or tamarind. Adjust to taste, adding a pinch of salt if desired.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or pitcher, pressing out every last drop.
- Drink warm or chill to sip later, shaking or stirring before pouring as natural sediment will settle.
Notes
Honey or maple syrup can be adjusted based on sweetness preference. Store in a sealed jar for 3 to 4 days, or freeze in ice cubes for quick servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending and Simmering
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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