You’re probably familiar with turmeric, the beautiful golden-yellow spice found in curry powder. Traditional cultures in Asia have revered turmeric for both culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Almond Curry, Zesty Spiced Cauliflower and Grilled Halibut with Turmeric, Garlic and Capers showcase the gorgeous hues of turmeric.
Turmeric is available fresh or dried. When using fresh, peel the skin with a paring knife, then grate, shred or mince before using. When used as a spice in cooked dishes, turmeric adds a subtle, slightly peppery and earthy flavor that colorfully enhances a wide variety of foods. Here are some ideas and recipes:
Add freshly grated turmeric to smoothies and freshly juiced fruits or vegetables.
Make turmeric tea by steeping a few teaspoons of freshly grated turmeric root or a teaspoon of dried turmeric in a few cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain before drinking. If desired, steep fresh ginger along with turmeric. Add lemon, lime or honey. Make golden milk by using dairy or non-dairy milk in place of water. Add honey or maple syrup and a drop of vanilla, if desired.
Grilled Halibut with Turmeric, Garlic and Capers
Add a pinch or more of dried turmeric to guacamole, hummus or eggplant dip, bean dips, dairy-based dips, sauces and spreads. Roasted Cod and Carrots with Turmeric Tzatziki combines turmeric with yogurt, garlic and cayenne to make a tasty Greek-style sauce.
When making stir-fries, add dried turmeric to hot oil before adding vegetables.
Turmeric enhances soups, stews, curries, grains and legumes. Add to rice or quinoa while cooking. Spicy Beef and Potato Curry spotlights the flavors of South Indian cuisine. Moroccan Spiced Chickpea and Lentil Soup pairs a variety of spices and vegetables, all simmered together to make an unforgettable, hearty vegan soup. Serve it with hot whole grain pita and a leafy green salad.
Add a pinch of dried or a bit of grated fresh turmeric to your favorite salad dressing.
Turmeric is combined with aromatic spices to create a fabulous rub for our Flavors of India Roasted Chicken.
Tandoori Beef or Lamb, Indonesian-Style Fish with Tamarind-Turmeric Sauce and Spicy Egg Flower Soup highlight the flavors and spices of traditional Indian, Indonesian, and Asian cooking,
Remember, whether fresh or dried, turmeric can stain clothes, hands, kitchen counters and chopping boards, so you may want to wear gloves and an apron when cooking with it.
Chicken Curry, Indian Spiced Veggie Burgers, Curried Apple Chutney and other recipes that call for curry powder are more great ways to incorporate turmeric into your menu plan. What’s your favorite way to use turmeric? Let me know in the comment section below.
