Not a spice I was very familiar with 8 years ago, but since then we’ve become pretty tight 😉 I don’t personally find it has a very strong flavour - more so that it combines well with several other spices and is often found lurking in ready made spice combinations (such as curry powder, ras el hanout etc). And have we talked about the numerous health benefits it provides? We should definately do that.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric is a root native to India, which is commonly used as a spice in cooking. It is a very bright yellow colour ( as you can see above and which - warning - stains easily!) that often colours the food it is added to as well as providing a rather peppery taste.
Health benefits?
Turmeric contains compounds called curcuminoids. which are believed to have medicinal properties. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in Turmeric with powerful anti-inflammatory effects and which acts as a potent antioxidant. Curcumin is fat-soluble and is more easily absorbed by our bodies when paired with black pepper ( a great excuse for seasoning if you ask us!).
As chronic inflammation contributes to many health conditions, anti-inflammatories are beneficial in the fight against illnesses including heart disease, cancer and arthritis.
Oxidative damage is a major contributing factor towards ageing and various diseases. Oxidative damage is caused by free radicals which can be neutralised by antioxidants, making them a crucial part of any diet.
More in-depth details about the health benefits of Curcumin can be found here.
How to buy it?
Turmeric is usually purchased in powdered form and you’re very likely to find it in your local supermarket with the other herbs and spices. It is also sometimes available in the world foods section of the store, usually in slightly larger quantities, which reduces the price a bit for those of you who might find you love it as much as we do!
How can you use it?
Turmeric is a tasty spice that is delicious when added to stews, soups and curries!
It can be used fresh or as a dried spice.
You can grate it onto salads, add it to an omelette, or mix with roasted veg or rice.
Try to pair turmeric with a healthy fat and some black pepper to optimise absorption!
To take in larger quantities for health benefits you can try turmeric tea, lattes, taking it as a shot, or in a smoothie.
Turmeric supplements are also available.
Plenty of other great ideas are available online!
Meals we make using turmeric:
Spicy Cauliflower, Chickpea & Butternut Squash Tagine (*ingredient in the curry powder)
Chickpea, Vegetable & Coconut Curry (*ingredient in the curry powder)
Spicy Lentil & Butternut Squash Soup (*ingredient in the ras el hanout)
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