I love the ritual of coffee.  In winter, it’s the coziness of a steaming cup of creaminess as I curl under a blanket; in summer, it’s the refreshing silky sweetness that I sip on the patio, the beach and everywhere in between.  What I don’t always like is the caffeine hit that comes with it.

I gave up coffee last summer, and although I weaned myself off my caffeine addiction within a week, I never stopped missing my ritual.  Coffee isn’t just a stimulant for me, it’s a treat: it’s those few moments every morning when I can sit back, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasure of just being, while I sip a delicious and comforting drink.  I tried to satisfy my craving with caffeine-free coffee – which was fine – but then I read about all the terrible chemicals used in the decaffeinating process and decided to look for a more natural substitute.

Roasted dandelion root was my answer.  It is a good espresso substitute taste-wise, with decidedly more nutritional value, as well as calming, cleansing attributes.  Nutritional benefits include improved digestion, liver detoxification, a source of potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, B-complex vitamins, Vitamin C, and more protein per gram than spinach! (Don’t just take my word for it; a quick google search on dandelion root will unearth a wealth of benefits.)  Adding cinnamon, turmeric, and clove amps up the antioxidant properties and delivers a flavourful spicy kick.

You can find Roasted Dandelion Root at your local natural food store, or on Amazon.  Just be sure to search “Roasted Dandelion Root coffee”, or your results will bring up teas, which are just as beneficial, but much more difficult to turn into a creamy coffee substitute!  My preferred brand is Dandy Blend.  I also prefer my latte with almond milk, but you can substitute with regular milk or a nut milk of your choice.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp roasted dandelion root

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp clove

¼ tsp turmeric

¼ cup water

Milk of your choice

Ice cubes

Maple syrup (optional)

Per serving:

1. In a shaker (or any container with a tightly sealed lid; I sometimes use mason jars), combine roasted dandelion root, cinnamon, clove, turmeric and water, and shake. If you prefer your coffee sweetened, add maple syrup.
2. Once a froth has formed, pour mixture into a tall glass and top up with milk of your choice
3. Add ice cubes, and enjoy!