Short & Spicy are bite-sized descriptions of spices that make perfect morsels so perfect.
What: Turmeric is a root from the ginger family. In its original form, it has a knobby shape similar to ginger. It has been used as the main spice for food and religious rituals in India and China for over 4,000 years.
Taste & Smell: Warm, pungent, earthy, woody flavor and aroma. A little bitter, much like orange rind. Hints of pepper and, at times, ginger.
Main use: Predominantly used in its powdered form in Indian, Middle Eastern and Thai cooking to add a slightly bitter spicy taste and a pop of color. A small amount imparts a lot of flavor. It is the main ingredient in curry powder and gives regular bottled mustard its bright yellow color.
Other uses: As a natural dye for clothes and many cosmetic, medicinal and religious purposes. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is considered to be a potent antioxidant and antiseptic in Eastern and Western medicine. Medicinal benefits include being a stomach soother, a powerful anti-inflammatory, a natural antiseptic for wounds, and a liver cleanser. Eating it with black pepper enhances its healing properties.
Other names: haldi (Hindi), curcum (Arabic), kha-min (Thai), curcuma (Spanish & French)
Story/Memory/Recipe: Read Turmeric Milk: Not Just A Pretty Spice and Spiced Latkes: From 0 to 60
Ryan Noggle says
We studied turmeric in our Thai cooking class last week — a class I sat through with legs covered in mosquito bites. So imagine my excitement when our teacher informed us of turmeric’s “other” use — mosquito bite relief! I immediately rubbed the root all over both legs and found instant relief. Who knew?!
Anjali says
Mosquito bites? That’s great to know! I’ve heard of folks rubbing a paste of turmeric and water on ankle sprains too. Who knew such a pretty looking spice had such healing powers. Thanks for reading and commenting, Ryan. PS – Yum for the Thai cooking class.
hannah says
Also good for joint pain and swelling AND you can use it with fresh lime for a detox bath! Yes, it turns your tub yellow…
Anjali says
A detox bath? How interesting. It’s been so cool learning about these new uses of turmeric. Thank you! I’ll have to add it to my travel and first aid kits.