What is Turmeric?
Turmeric, also known as the “Golden Spice,” has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and cuisine. This vibrant yellow spice, derived from the root of the turmeric plant, has a long list of health benefits and has become increasingly popular in recent years. It contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been shown to help with a range of health issues, from reducing inflammation to improving brain function and even preventing certain types of cancer. Beyond its health benefits, turmeric also adds a unique flavor and color to a variety of dishes, from curries to smoothies. Whether you’re looking to boost your health or spice up your meals, it is definitely worth incorporating into your routine.
History & Background
It has a long and rich history dating back over 4,000 years. First cultivated in India it has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including digestive problems, arthritis, and skin disorders. It was also used as a dye for clothing and textiles due to its bright yellow color.
In ancient times, it was highly valued and was even considered a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. It was commonly used in religious ceremonies and was believed to have powerful spiritual properties.
Today, it is widely used and has gained popularity in the Western world for its health benefits. It is available in various forms, including fresh turmeric root, powdered turmeric, and turmeric supplements.
What form does it come in
It is available in several forms, including fresh turmeric root, powdered turmeric, and turmeric supplements. Fresh turmeric root can be found in some specialty grocery stores and is commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a slightly earthy and bitter taste and can be grated or sliced and added to recipes.
Powdered turmeric is more widely available and can be found in most grocery stores. It has a warm, slightly bitter flavor and is often used in spice blends and curries. Turmeric supplements are also available and are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory properties.
We have included a link for Ground Turmeric, so that you will always have some ready to use in your cooking.
Ground Turmeric Powder – ‘The Golden Spice’
This product is ethically sourced, with sustainability at the forefront.
This is also organic, Non-GMO, gluten-free, no sugar or additives.
USDA certified.
Large 80 ounce resealable container.
Is turmeric good for you?
It is packed with health benefits and is considered a superfood. It contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Curcumin has been studied extensively and has been shown to help with a range of health issues, including reducing inflammation and improving brain function. Also, it may even prevent certain types of cancer. It may also help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels and improve digestion.
However, it’s important to note that the curcumin content in turmeric is relatively low, and it may be difficult to consume enough to see significant health benefits. Taking turmeric supplements or incorporating a concentrated form of curcumin into your diet may be more effective.
And if you want to learn more about the health benefits of turmeric, why not have a look at what these guys at “The Parsley Porch” say.
Flavor profile of turmeric
Turmeric has a warm, slightly bitter flavor and a vibrant yellow color. It is commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine and is a key ingredient in many spice blends and curries.
When used in moderation, it can add a unique flavor and depth to dishes. It pairs well with other spices such as cumin and coriander and can be used to add color and flavor to soups, stews, and rice dishes.
Cooking with turmeric
Turmeric can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. It pairs well with a range of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and seafood.
One popular way to use it is in curries. It is often combined with other spices such as cumin and coriander and can be used to flavor a variety of dishes, from chicken curry to vegetable curry.
Turmeric can also be used to add flavor and color to rice dishes. Simply add a pinch of it to the cooking water when making rice to give it a vibrant yellow hue.
Another way to use it is by adding it into smoothies. By adding a small amount of it to your morning smoothie you can give it an extra health boost. It will also give it a unique flavor.
Recipe ideas using Turmeric
Golden Turmeric Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, turmeric powder, and salt.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- In a separate small pan, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté until they start to sizzle and become fragrant.
- Pour the tempered cumin seeds and ghee over the cooked rice and gently fluff the rice with a fork to incorporate the turmeric and cumin evenly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, turmeric powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss until the cauliflower is well coated with the spices and oil.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted cauliflower before serving.
Turmeric Coconut Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and turmeric powder. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth or water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine.
- Serve the turmeric coconut lentil soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Common uses
In addition to its culinary uses, it has a variety of alternative uses. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of health conditions, including digestive problems, arthritis, and skin disorders.
Turmeric has also been used as a natural dye for clothing and textiles. Its bright yellow color makes it a popular choice for dyeing fabrics, and it is often used to create vibrant shades of yellow and orange.
Alternatives for turmeric
If you don’t have turmeric on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use to achieve a similar flavor and color. Saffron, curry powder, and ground ginger can all be used as substitutes.
Saffron has a similar vibrant yellow color and can be used to add a unique flavor to dishes. Curry powder typically contains turmeric along with other spices such as cumin and coriander. This can make curry powder a perfect substitute in spice blends and curries. Ground ginger has a warm, slightly sweet flavor and can be used to add a similar flavor profile to dishes.
Have a look at our substitutes section for ideas on what other ingredient you can use in place of turmeric.
Conclusion
Turmeric, the “Golden Spice,” is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. It contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine it is traditionally used to add flavor and color to a range of dishes. It pairs well with other spices and can be used to flavor curries, rice dishes, and smoothies.
In addition to its culinary uses, it has a variety of alternative uses, including in traditional medicine and as a natural dye for clothing and textiles. If you don’t have turmeric on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use to achieve a similar flavor and color, including saffron, curry powder, and ground ginger.
Overall, it is a healthy and flavorful ingredient that is definitely worth incorporating into your routine. Whether you’re looking to boost your health or spice up your meals, turmeric is a great choice.