Turmeric Gelatin Squares, a Small Steadying Ritual

Some days call for a snack that feels like it is on your side. These squares take about 10 minutes of hands on work, then set in the refrigerator until firm, so you can make a batch ahead and reach for one whenever you want it.

They lean on gelatin, a whole food many people keep close on this path for its gut supportive collagen. Turmeric has a long history in traditional cooking and is often studied for its anti-inflammatory qualities, though the research on its main compound, curcumin, is still developing, and the body takes it up better alongside a little fat, which is why a spoon of coconut oil rides along here. Hold the health framing lightly and enjoy these as a pleasant, gut friendly snack rather than a remedy.

Let the making be part of it. Whisk the gelatin in slowly, watch the color deepen to gold, and pour it out to set with a little satisfaction at how simple that was.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1/2 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 3 tablespoons honey, adjusted to taste
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, optional (helps the body take up the turmeric)
• 4 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder

Method

• Warm the water, turmeric, honey, and coconut oil in a saucepan over medium heat about 5 minutes, stirring, until everything is blended and the honey has dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness.
• Take the pan off the heat. Sprinkle the gelatin over the surface and whisk steadily about a minute until fully dissolved with no lumps.
• Pour into a 9 by 6 inch dish. Chill in the refrigerator about 2 hours, until firm.
• Cut into squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within about a week.

*Adapted from a-squirrel-in-the-kitchen*