Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Turmeric

Curcuma longa Allergen-Free
turmeric

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Zingiberaceae
  • Primary Cuisine South Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Turmeric rhizome

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 a plant, known for its earthy flavor and coloring.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Bitter, Slightly peppery, Pungent
TexturePowdery (dried), Fibrous (fresh)
AromaWarm, Musky, Gingery
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Active Compound

Curcumin (up to 3% by weight)

Best Absorption

Enhanced by black pepper & fat

Staining Power

Strong natural dye for fabrics/skin

Nutrition Facts

Per 2g (1 tsp ground)
Calories354 kcal
Total Fat9.9 g
Saturated Fat3.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein7.8 g
Total Carbohydrate64.9 g
Dietary Fiber21 g
Total Sugars3.2 g
Calcium183 mg
Iron41.4 mg
Potassium2525 mg

Chef’s Secret

Bloom ground turmeric in a little oil at the start of cooking to intensify its flavor and color before adding other ingredients.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cumin

1:1 (flavor, less color)

Provides an earthy, warm flavor, but lacks turmeric's vibrant yellow color and slight bitterness.

Curry Powder

1:1 (use less initially)

Often contains turmeric and other spices, can provide similar flavor and color profile, but may alter specific spice balance.

Saffron (for color)

Small pinch : 1 tsp turmeric

Excellent for bright yellow color in dishes, but imparts a distinctly different, more delicate floral flavor and is very expensive.

Ginger (fresh or dried)

1:1

A close relative, offers peppery, slightly pungent notes similar to fresh turmeric, but lacks the bitter undertone and color.

Buying Guide

Store ground turmeric in an airtight container away from light. Fresh rhizomes can be refrigerated or frozen.

Flavor Pairings

Coconut Milk Lentils Rice Chicken Spinach Ginger Cumin

Recipes Using Turmeric

Main Ingredient 15 Minutes Or Less Meat Poultry

5 Minute Butter Chicken

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Iranian Persian Cuisine Asian Iranian Persian

Aab Goosht E Lappeh

Experience the rich, savory depths of Aab Goosht E Lappeh, a hearty Persian/Iranian lamb stew. This comforting classic features tender lamb, split peas, and aromatic spices, slow-cooked to perfection. Unlike many stews, rice is NOT served with this dish; instead, enjoy it with crusty Iranian bread, pita, or Middle Eastern flatbread, soaking up the flavorful broth. A perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal!

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Heirloom Historical Course Rice Occasion

Al Kabsa Traditional Saudi Rice Chicken Dish

Experience the rich flavors of authentic Al Kabsa, a traditional Saudi Arabian dish! This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a fragrant blend of spices and served over fluffy rice. A delightful variation on this classic, perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to savor the aromatic spices and succulent chicken in this easy-to-follow recipe. Discover the magic of Al Kabsa today!

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Course Dietary Main Dish Vegetables

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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Main Ingredient Cuisine Main Dish Time To Make

Aloo Gobi Mattar Cauliflower Pea And Potato Curry

Experience a flavor explosion with this vibrant Aloo Gobi Mattar! Combining the best of Aloo Gobi and Aloo Mattar, this curry is bursting with fragrant spices and tender vegetables. A delicious adaptation of a Route79.com recipe, it's a fantastic way to sneak extra greens into your meal. This gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free dish is traditionally cooked in a karahi, but a wok or large nonstick pan works perfectly. For an authentic taste, we highly recommend using ghee. Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice with chapati or naan for a truly unforgettable culinary journey!

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Low Protein Time To Make Asian Cuisine

Aloo Matar Ka Pulao Indian Rice With Potatoes And Peas

Discover the authentic flavors of India with this Aloo Matar Ka Pulao recipe! Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this fragrant rice dish combines tender potatoes and sweet peas in a symphony of warming spices. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion, this easy-to-follow recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of India.

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Dietary Potatoes Low Cholesterol Low In Something

Alu Patras Fried Spicy Potato Swirls

Crispy, golden Alu Patras – spicy potato swirls – are a delightful Indian snack! These savory pastries are filled with a flavorful potato mixture and then fried to perfection. Serve hot with tamarind chutney for an unforgettable taste experience. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a unique side dish.

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Course Main Dish North American Time To Make

Arroz Con Pollo

Inspired by Jorge Ayala's legendary Arroz con Pollo (that beat Bobby Flay!), this recipe delivers a vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of savory spices create a truly unforgettable meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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Main Dish Course Indian 4 Hours Or Less

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 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make For 1 Or 2

Aubergine Eggplant And Broccoli Laksa

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Preparation Free Of Something Egg Free Vegetables

Aubergine Eggplant Courgette And Chickpea Stew

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Condiments Etc Dietary Preparation Course

Banana Pepper Rings

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Course Bananas Tropical Fruit Dietary

Banana Tofu Curry

Transform overripe bananas into a surprisingly delicious and easy curry! This unique recipe, inspired by a curry-loving friend, blends the sweetness of bananas with savory spices and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this quick and flavorful curry is ready in under an hour and is guaranteed to impress. Serve with basmati rice and your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying experience.

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Dinner Party 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make Chick Peas Garbanzos

Barley Morocco

This vibrant and flavorful Barley Morocco recipe is a feast for the senses! Tender barley is perfectly complemented by a medley of colorful vegetables and hearty garbanzo beans. Served with warm pita bread and refreshing melon wedges sprinkled with mint, this dish is a healthy and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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Course Asian African Preparation

Beef Keema

Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Beef Keema, a hearty Indian ground beef curry! This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Keema, a minced meat dish popular in Northern India and Pakistan. Tender beef is simmered in a fragrant blend of warming spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric, along with tender potatoes and sweet peas. Served with fluffy naan or pita bread and a glass of fruity Beaujolais, this Keema is a culinary adventure you won't forget. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Course Preparation Meat Main Dish

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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Saudi Arabian Preparation Free Of Something Asian

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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Dietary Vegan North American Inexpensive

Gallo Pinto Costa Rican Rice And Beans

Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica with this authentic Gallo Pinto recipe! Meaning "painted rooster," this colorful rice and bean dish is a national favorite, enjoyed daily by many Costa Ricans. Our unique twist adds a touch of ginger and Worcestershire sauce for a depth of flavor you won't find anywhere else. This vegetarian-friendly recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal. Get ready to experience the magic of Gallo Pinto!

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