Turmeric

Not used much traditionally in this country, turmeric is one of the world's most popular and most-used spices.  From Southeast Asian to Middle Eastern to South African cuisines, this colorful spice is used for a number of reasons.


Turmeric in it's fresh state.



The flavor of turmeric is not very powerful--kind of a dull mustardy flavor.  It's usually used in conjunction with other spices--for example, as a main ingredient in curry powders. 

Turmeric is a rhizome--a root much like ginger--and is used in many parts of the world in it's fresh form.  We know it better after it's been boiled, dried and ground into a fine, orangish powder.  It adds color in many dishes and is often used commercially for it's color.

As is the case with many spices, turmeric is a good spice to use for it's healthy benefits.  Many studies are still ongoing, but turmeric is thought to:

• slow or prevent the onset of Alzheimer's Disease.
• help prevent the formation and spreading of many forms of cancer.
• help in the treatment of arthritis (it's a natural anti-inflammatory).
• help in healing of skin conditions and burns (it's a natural antiseptic).
• help to reduce the risk of childhood leukemia.
• be a natural liver detoxifier.

So it seems like it's time to join people from all over the world and take advantage of the benefits of turmeric.  It's not just for coloring your dishes!