LET’S DRINK TO HEALTH

MY HEART skips a beat at the thought that winter is almost over. 

But hey, is it really? Or am I just voorbarig? 

While winter might be in its final stages, I have to say, it’s holding on for dear life. 

It’s still freezing! Cape Town’s chilly mornings and cool evenings are clear reminders that the season isn’t ready to let go just yet. 

I’m still sitting in front of the heater wrapped in a blanket, with layers of clothes on like there is no tomorrow, and those thick socks? Still 100 percent necessary.

Listen, have you ever gotten so cold your derms start vibrating? I know! While you’re feeling those vibrations, the nose starts running, you begin shivering, and the next minute you’re ready to pull up a chair and sit outside in the sun. 

Don’t do it - put that chair back and stay indoors. By the time that thin sun is done with you, you’ll have a blocked nose and feel worse than before.

Since winter isn’t quite ready to let go, and we’re still facing those cold days and nights, what better way to stay warm than with a comforting drink? 

Whether you want to boost your immune system, enjoy a sweet treat, or simply have a cozy moment to yourself, these warm drinks will do the trick.

Boosting your immune system is especially important during the colder months when colds and flu are more common. 

As we spend more time inside to stay warm during winter, it’s helpful to boost our

natural defenses against seasonal bugs. 

That’s why drinks made with ingredients like ginger, lemon, honey, and turmeric aren’t just tasty - they also help soothe your throat, fight inflammation, and keep you feeling your best all winter long.

For me, warm drinks also offer a comforting sense of relief. 

So, whether you’re after a spicy kick to warm you up or a creamy treat to comfort your soul, here are six of my favourite winter warmers to help chase away the chill.

And if you’re looking to save time, the good news is that some of these boosters can be made ahead and stored.

Blends like ginger, honey and lemon, or golden milk paste can be prepped in batches and kept in the fridge, ready to scoop into a mug when you need a little warmth or support.

Not only is it convenient, but it also means staying healthy doesn’t have to be a mission every day.

Ginger, Honey and Lemon Booster (see image above)

Great for fighting colds and boosting immunity. Ginger warms you up, lemon gives you vitamin C and honey soothes the throat.

Ingredients

1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, sliced

1 tablespoon honey

Juice of half a lemon

1½ cups boiling water

(Optional) Pinch of cayenne pepper

Method

Add ginger slices to a mug and pour over boiling water.

Let steep for 5–10 minutes.

Add lemon juice and honey. Stir well.

Add cayenne if using

Spiced Hot Chocolate

A cosy treat that lifts your mood and warms you up with a gentle kick from cinnamon and chilli.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

2 tablespoons sugar

1½ cups milk

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

⅛ teaspoon nutmeg

 Pinch of chilli powder (optional)

Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional)

Method

In a pot, mix cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and chilli.

Add a splash of milk to form a paste.

Slowly whisk in the rest of the milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

Pour into a mug and top with cream or marshmallows.

Rooibos Chai Latte

It’s caffeine-free, good for your body and helps you relax after a long day

Ingredients

2 rooibos tea bags

1 cup water

1 cup milk (any type)

1 cinnamon stick

2 cloves

2 cardamom pods (lightly crushed)

1 star anise

Honey or sugar to taste

Method

In a small pot, bring water and spices to a simmer.

Add rooibos tea bags and steep for 5-7 minutes.

Add milk and heat through - don’t boil.

Strain into a mug and sweeten to taste.

Golden Turmeric Milk Latte

Helps relieve pain, inflammation, and makes a great calming bedtime drink.

Ingredients

1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

½ teaspoon ground turmeric

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of black pepper

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Method

In a pot, whisk all ingredients together.

Warm gently over medium heat — don’t let it boil.

Pour into a mug and sip slowly.

Peppermint & Green Tea Booster

It soothes digestion, eases headaches, and gives a gentle energy boost while helping your body fight off colds and flu.

Ingredients

1 peppermint tea bag

1 green tea bag

1 cup boiling water

1–2 teaspoons honey (optional)

A slice of lemon or a few mint leaves (optional)

Method

Add both tea bags to a cup.

Pour in boiling water and let it steep for 5 minutes.

Remove tea bags.

Stir in honey if you’d like a touch of sweetness.

Add a slice of lemon or a few fresh mint leaves for extra flavour and benefits.

Warm Apple Cider Punch

A soothing drink that warms you up and helps clear a stuffy nose.

Ingredients

2 cups apple juice

½ orange, sliced

2 cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

Method

In a saucepan, combine all ingredients.

Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.

Strain and serve warm. Perfect for sharing!