Turmeric is a powerhouse of an ingredient, with immense health benefits! Learn how to activate turmeric, easy recipes that use turmeric and more!
Haldi: Grounding the Root
How does the root turn into powder? The root of Haridra (that’s turmeric in Ayurvedic) is boiled, dried in ovens and then grounded.
I know the powder is easier to find, but if you’re ever sniffing through a farmer’s market, pick up the root. Fresh turmeric has a pleasanter and lighter flavor than the pungent taste of the powder.
How to "Activate" Turmeric
Our bodies do not readily absorb all those good-for-health chemicals in turmeric. To its increase its bioavailability, add black pepper to the drink or food.
Why Use Turmeric: The Benefits of the Spice
For us, Haldi has been an effective nutritional supplement for so long that its true value was lost somewhere in the mists of antiquity. It’s when the western world stumbled upon it and started packaging as Turmeric latte and medicinal capsules that we caught on once again.
What makes turmeric a panacea among all the spices? Mostly it is curcumin, a chemical that gives the herb its bright yellow tint. Curcumin is also a potent antioxidant. Because oxidative damage is the root cause of ageing issues and much else, turmeric has a horde of health benefits.
Skip your luxury cosmetics and slather some Haldi paste for beautifully healed, shiny skin. If acne is a constant thorn in your side, try fresh turmeric tea. The tea also serves as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. So, from sore throats to fever, it can cure problems like nothing else.
What about adding it to food? In sustenance, the spice acts as a blood stimulator and keeps the intestine free of harmful bacteria, which is why this spice is prized for promoting ‘sweet intestines.’
Turmeric: Recipes
Most spices bring a blend of aroma, flavor, and color. Turmeric is subtly unique. It does have a sharp, bitter taste but its scent is barely-there. Barring the copious fitness benefits, it is for the hue that I use this the most. From custard to lemon tart ( I know, turmeric in a tart?), the spice does wonders for many recipes.
- Roasted Carrot Hummus with Turmeric: for the dreamiest light golden roasted carrot hummus, try this hummus recipe. Fresh veggies, pita bread or potato chips, it is the perfect dip for everything!
- Persimmon Chia Jam: if you have fresh turmeric root at hand, give this persimmon chia jam with turmeric a shot.
- To make the turmeric tea I mentioned before, take as much of the spice you can handle and mix it with honey. Pour hot water on the paste to make a rich blend and sprinkle some black pepper on top. Round it off with a squeeze of lemon.
MORE SPICES GUIDES - BENEFITS AND RECIPES
- Cinnamon: A Little Dash, Lot of Benefits
- Saffron: One Exotic Pinch, Many Benefits
- Fennel Seeds: Roast for More Benefits
I’m always happy to hear from you! So go right ahead and drop a comment or reach out on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, or Facebook.
Easyfoodsmith says
Can't think of life without spices and turmeric is one of the key ones.
Natasha Minocha says
I agree they are an integral part of our everyday cooking.