Four collagen-infused winter warmers

BY SASHA PARKIN, Nutritional Therapist at Wild Nutrition.

 

As the colder days and darker evenings draw in, plans to cosy up on the sofa with those you hold dear can be one of life’s simplest pleasures. Especially enjoyable with a delicious and nutritious hot drink in hand to keep you toasty and nourished. So, we’ve created four simple hot drink recipes to inspire you - and the best part is they are all packed with nutrients to not only perk you up but help you look and feel your best throughout the season ahead.

All four contain our exciting new Collagen 500 Plus which pairs the innovative science of Mesoporosil® Silica with sustainably sourced Collagen di- and tri-peptides. An ultra-low molecular weight Collagen (500 Daltons) offering superior absorption and combined with Vitamins C and E for antioxidant support and collagen formation, and Biotin for skin and hair support.

Our Collagen 500 Plus makes the perfect addition to any drink at any time of day as it’s unflavoured and easily dissolves in both hot and cold beverages. Its superior absorption not only means you only need three grams (¾ tsp) versus the industry standard of 10 or even 20 grams but it’s also bioactive in five minutes.

Now for the recipes…

 

Matcha Latte

Ingredients: 

• ¾ teaspoon (tsp) Collagen 500 Plus 
• ½ tsp Matcha powder (we used Bird & Blend)
• 50ml of hot water 
• 100ml of a milk of your choice 

Method: 

1. Add the Matcha to a bowl or rounded mug and add the water (don't use boiling water - boil the kettle then leave for a few minutes before pouring over). 
2. Combine the Matcha and water using a Matcha whisk, small whisk or milk frother in circular motions to remove any clumps.
3. Add the Collagen and stir until dissolved. 
4. Froth your milk either in a milk frother machine or on the hob until warm enough that tiny bubbles begin to form. 
5. Pour your frothed milk over your Matcha Collagen mix.
6. Enjoy!  

 

Turmeric Latte

There’s something incredibly grounding about Turmeric that supports quiet moments of reflection. I believe it’s a great mind support when you need a brief moment of calm throughout the day. Not only does it contain potent anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, but it is also rich in antioxidants - a trifecta of benefits for mind and body.

Ingredients: 

• ¾ tsp Collagen 500 Plus
• 1tsp Turmeric powder (we used a blend from Hello Good Sip that also contains spices and black pepper for added depth of flavour and added Turmeric absorption)
• Dash of hot water 
• 100ml of a milk of your choice 

Method: 

1. Put the Turmeric in your mug and add the water to create a paste-like consistency. 
2. Add the collagen and stir until dissolved. 
3. Froth your milk either in a milk frother machine or on the hob until it’s warm enough that tiny bubbles appear. 
4. Pour your frothed milk over your Turmeric and Collagen mix.
5. Enjoy!  

 

Chai Latte (Masala Chai)

Rich in warming and potent spices, Chai offers a wonderfully sweet and rich aroma - a treat for all the senses. Before gaining worldwide recognition, Chai spice blends are believed to have been brewed to promote good health in India and Ayurveda for thousands of years.

Ingredients: 

• ¾ tsp Collagen 500 Plus
• ½ tsp Chai powder* (we used the cardamom masala blend from Amala Chai)
• 100ml water 
• 150ml of a milk of your choice 
• Optional ½ tsp of black tea (we omitted this to make ours decaffeinated).
  

*If you have the spices at home you can also make this blend by using: 

• 2 split pods Cardamom - 2 pods split 
•  ½ tsp Nutmeg
• 5cm slice of fresh Ginger
• ½ tsp or 1 stick Cinnamon
• 1 pinch of black pepper

Method: 

1. Add the Chai powder and water to a saucepan and set to medium heat bringing to a boil - stir throughout (and if you are adding black tea add this now).
2. Add the milk and heat for a further minute or two. 
3. Pour into your mug of choice through a fine sieve to remove any whole spices.
4. Add the Collagen and stir until dissolved. 
5. Enjoy!  

 

Hot Cacao

Last but by no means least, everyone knows the comfort of a mug of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s day, but did you know the health benefits that Cacao brings to the table? Cacao is rich in flavonoids which have powerful antioxidant properties, magnesium, iron and other trace minerals. We hope this drink brings you a moment of rich indulgence and warmth - why not enjoy in the evening with a book or film that’s been calling your name?…

Ingredients:

• ¾ tsp Collagen 500 Plus
• 1 heaped tsp Cacao (we used Raw Living)
• 150ml of a milk of your choice 
• Optional ¼ tsp cinnamon 

Method: 

1. Add the Cacao powder, Cinnamon (if using) and milk to a saucepan* and boil until bubbles start to appear. *If you have a milk frother you could add the ingredients to this instead of boiling on the stove.
2. Pour into your mug.
3. Add the Collagen and stir until dissolved. 
4. Enjoy!  

 

Discover more about our Collagen 500 Plus in our Collagen 500 Plus Q+A with our founder Henrietta. Or if you fancy making a tasty snack to enjoy with your hot drink, why not try out our Almond Berry Muffins?