4 Healing Recipes with Turmeric July 25, 2016
There’s a reason why it’s referred to as Indian gold… read on for more details about this super spice, including four healing recipes with turmeric.
Our pantry here at HelloFresh is stocked high with spices. Cinnamon, ginger, cumin, cardamom, nutmeg, paprika – you name it, we have it. And although each type holds a special place in our spice-loving hearts, we gotta admit that turmeric is high on our list of favorites right now. Why? Well, it tastes downright heavenly, adds a bright pop of yellow color, and is widely believed to be the most powerful medicinal herb on the planet. Talk about a triple threat.
If you’ve never heard of or tried this super spice, listen up. We’ve done some digging to help you understand exactly what it is, why it’s so awesome, and how you can sneak some of it into your diet.
What is it?
Turmeric spice is made by grinding the boiled and dried root of the Curcuma longa plant. It’s native to Indonesia and southern India and has been harvested there for more than 5,000 years. Today, the leading commercial producers of the spice also include China, the Philippines, Taiwan, Jamaica, and Haiti.
Turmeric is known for its warm, bitter, and peppery taste, mild fragrance reminiscent of ginger, and stunning yellow hue similar to that of saffron.
What’s so great about it?
Take the advice of our good old friend Hippocrates and “let food [or spices like turmeric!] be thy medicine.”
Seriously, though. Turmeric is jam-packed with iron, manganese, vitamin B6, dietary fiber, potassium, and a whole slew of antioxidants to benefit practically every organ in the body. It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory, provides relief for eczema, lowers cholesterol, improves blood flow, gives aspirin a run for its money in relieving headaches, and has been shown to prevent certain types of cancer. Some even go so far as to apply it to the skin in the form of a topical paste to clear skin problems.
How to cook with it?
If you’ve ever had curry, then SURPRISE – you’ve eaten turmeric! It lends a deep flavor and color to everything from curry powders and mustard to butter and cheese. Try adding it to egg salad, sprinkling it on steamed cauliflower, and tossing it on pretty much all dishes that involve lentils.
Looking for some turmeric recipe inspiration? We’ve got you covered. Be warned, though, the spice will stain your clothes bright yellow (a risk we’re 100% willing to take).
1. Turmeric-Spiced Pea & Leek Fritters
2. Turmeric and Mango Juice Smoothie
3. Palak’s South Indian Shrimp Curry with Coconut Milk and Basmati Rice
4. Vegetarian Paella with Sweet Peppers, Mushrooms, and Rosemary
Love Indian food? So do we! Check out our guide to the cuisine’s 18 essential ingredients.
Happy Cooking!