Herbal Coffee (Mooligai Coffee) – 100g

This takes the familiar sukku malli base — dry ginger, coriander, pepper, long pepper, chitharathai and cardamom — and adds licorice (athimadhuram) and ashwagandha. Licorice brings a natural sweetness and a smoother finish; ashwagandha adds an earthy depth. Palm candy is ground in.

To prepare: one teaspoon in a cup of water, boil well, strain and drink hot. Works with or without milk.

Caffeine-free. If you are pregnant or taking prescribed medicines, check with your doctor before drinking it daily, as licorice and ashwagandha are known to interact with some medications.