Turmeric

Curcuma longa Spice

Turmeric Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The golden wonder of the spice world, bringing not just warmth and color to cuisine but also a wealth of wellness to the body."

Definition

A vibrant yellow-orange spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, known for its earthy, slightly bitter flavor and potent health benefits.

Active Compound Curcumin (up to 3% by weight)
Best Absorption Enhanced by black pepper & fat
Staining Power Strong natural dye for fabrics/skin

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Turmeric are:

Earthy slightly bitter peppery warm pungent

Chef’s Secret

To maximize turmeric's flavor and color, 'bloom' it in hot oil or fat for about 30 seconds before adding other ingredients to a dish.

Best Substitutes

Saffron

for color, expensive

Cumin

for earthiness, different color

Mustard Powder

for pungency, different color

Buying Guide

Buy ground or fresh root. Store ground turmeric in an airtight container away from light.

Recipes Using Turmeric

Broccoli African Low Protein Course

African Style Broccoli

A vibrant and flavorful African-inspired broccoli recipe! This quick and easy dish, originally discovered during the Zaar World Tour 2005, combines tender broccoli with a zesty, nutty sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal.

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Cuisine Seasonal Rice Equipment

African Vegetable Stew

Experience the warm embrace of Africa with this vibrant vegetable stew! Cinnamon takes center stage, its fragrant warmth weaving through a medley of vegetables and spices for a truly unique and satisfying flavor profile. This hearty and healthy stew is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

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Dietary Occasion Indian Course

Akoori Scrambled Eggs Parsi

Experience the vibrant flavors of Parsi cuisine with this delightful Akoori Scrambled Eggs recipe! A quick and easy breakfast or brunch option, this creamy, spiced egg dish is perfect for a satisfying tiffin. Learn how to make this flavorful egg scramble, bursting with aromatic spices and perfectly cooked to a creamy consistency. Serve with chapatis, parathas, or toasted bread for a complete and unforgettable meal.

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Low Fat Beans Main Dish Main Ingredient

Algerian Stew With White Beans Barboucha

Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this authentic Algerian Barboucha stew! A fragrant blend of spices and tender white beans simmered with succulent meat (lamb or tripe), this hearty stew is a culinary journey in every bite. The rich aroma alone is captivating, and the taste? Simply unforgettable. Serve with fluffy couscous or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This recipe transports you to a remote Moroccan town, recreating a truly authentic dining experience.

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Time To Make Cuisine Curries Course

Aloo Gobi

Recreate the magic of Bend It Like Beckham with this vibrant and flavorful Aloo Gobi recipe! This authentic Indian curry features tender potatoes and cauliflower simmered in a rich blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible taste.

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Vegetables Time To Make Course Asian

Aloo Matar

Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this easy-to-make Aloo Matar recipe! Inspired by a fantastic first taste of authentic Indian food, this recipe is surprisingly simple, inexpensive, and delivers a delicious, comforting curry perfect for any weeknight. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice with naan or pita bread for an unforgettable meal. Learn how to make this restaurant-quality dish at home!

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Occasion Course

Anticuchos Peruvian Beef Kebabs

Experience the fiery flavors of Peru with these authentic Anticuchos! Marinated in a vibrant blend of aji amarillo (or hot paprika for a delicious alternative), these juicy beef kebabs are a taste of Peruvian street food magic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a sizzling summer BBQ, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. Get ready for an explosion of flavor!

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Time To Make Low Sodium Preparation Indian

Assamee Chicken

Discover the irresistible flavors of Assam with this authentic Assamese Chicken recipe! A family favorite, this tender and flavorful dish is surprisingly easy to make. Impress your friends and family with this aromatic masterpiece, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a culinary journey to India with just a few simple steps.

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Dietary Time To Make Healthy 2 Low In Something

Assyrian Chicken And Potatoes With Yellow Rice

Aromatic and flavorful Assyrian feast! This recipe features tender chicken and potatoes baked to perfection with a vibrant saffron-infused yellow rice. Experience the rich spices of the Middle East in this comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Easy to follow instructions for delicious results!

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Main Dish Dietary Course Egg Free

Aubergine Eggplant Courgette And Chickpea Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian stew bursting with Mediterranean spices! This hearty and satisfying dish features tender aubergine (eggplant), zucchini (courgette), chickpeas, and a rich tomato broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a flavorful weekend lunch. Easy to make and packed with goodness!

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Low Calorie Middle Eastern Holiday Event Citrus

Bademjan Delicious Persian Stew

Dive into the rich flavors of Bademjan (Eggplant) – a comforting and authentic Persian stew! This recipe, easily adaptable for vegetarians, pairs perfectly with fluffy Persian rice (polo). Impress your family and friends with this vibrant and flavorful dish, bursting with aromatic spices and tender eggplant. Get ready for a culinary journey to Iran!

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Low Saturated Fat Healthy Free Of Something Diabetic

Baked Fish With Lemon Black Pepper

This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality baked fish dish in under an hour! Perfectly flaky white fish fillets are marinated in a vibrant blend of aromatic spices, then baked to golden perfection. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors, creating a dish that's both simple and sophisticated. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion!

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Potluck Spicy Time To Make Sweet

Barbs Bread Butter Pickles

These Bread and Butter Pickles are a family favorite for a reason! A tangy, sweet, and crunchy treat, this recipe has been perfected over time. Easy to make and perfect for canning, these pickles are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready for the perfect side dish for any occasion!

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Inexpensive 30 Minutes Or Less Vegetables Dinner Party

Basmati Rice With Turmeric And Mushrooms

Experience the aromatic delight of this Turmeric Basmati Rice recipe, infused with earthy mushrooms! This recipe offers a simple yet elegant side dish, perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Whether you prefer stovetop or oven baking (yes, it's that versatile!), this recipe ensures perfectly cooked, fluffy basmati rice every time. Soaking the rice enhances its texture, but feel free to skip this step – just be sure to thoroughly rinse the rice beforehand. Fresh or canned mushrooms work beautifully; let your culinary creativity shine!

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Main Dish Course 1 Day Or More Preparation

Bbq Pork Shoulder

Experience the legendary taste of Kansas City BBQ with this mouthwatering pork shoulder recipe! Slow-cooked to perfection, this fall-apart tender masterpiece boasts an unforgettable smoky flavor. Plan ahead for a 16-hour cooking journey (plus overnight marinades!), but trust us – the incredible results are worth every minute. Prepare for rave reviews! This recipe delivers an authentic Kansas City BBQ experience you won't soon forget. Impress your friends and family with this showstopper.

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Main Dish Main Ingredient Preparation Indian

Beef Vindaloo The Real Thing

Experience the fiery heat and aromatic explosion of authentic Beef Vindaloo! This low-fat, healthier take on a classic Goan curry uses white wine vinegar and a touch of sugar for a surprisingly balanced flavor profile. A perfect blend of spices, expertly ground (using a grinder, blender, or mortar and pestle), creates a rich and complex taste that will leave you wanting more. Pair this culinary masterpiece with a crisp lager for the ultimate dining experience. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

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15 Minutes Or Less Easy High Fiber Time To Make

Berbere Spice Mix Ethiopian

Unlock the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia with this authentic Berbere spice blend! This aromatic mix, featured in countless Ethiopian dishes, adds a fiery kick and complex depth to grilled fish, poultry, meats, and vegetables. Whether you're seasoning your cooking or adding a finishing touch at the table, our Berbere spice mix will transport your taste buds to the heart of East Africa. Inspired by a classic homemaker's recipe, this easy-to-make blend is perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

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Cuisine Chicken Breasts Long Grain Rice Main Ingredient

Easy Saudi Kabsa Zainab's Gluten Free

Experience the vibrant flavors of Saudi Arabia with this easy gluten-free Kabsa recipe! Tender chicken breasts are paired with fragrant spiced yellow rice and a delicious tomato sauce (or use our tomato-free alternative – Recipe #359835). This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is easily customizable to your taste. Inspired by ArabicBites.

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