Turmeric 101: Indian ingredients for beginners

In the last couple of years, turmeric has boomed in popularity. From turmeric lattes to turmeric face masks, people are putting this vibrant spice in absolutely everything. Though it has been a favourite Indian ingredient for thousands of years, it is relatively new to the western world, but is now considered a very powerful superfood with many healing properties. But what exactly is turmeric?

Most people know turmeric as a bright yellow powder, but it naturally grows as a root and is actually part of the ginger family. It was originally found in Southeast Asia, and archaeologists have discovered pots covered in turmeric residue near New Delhi that date back as far as 2500 BC.

Turmeric is known to have been used medicinally for over 4,500 years, and its reputation for healing has now been proven by modern science. Turmeric contains properties called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin, which also provides the vibrant colour. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which has been proven to protect healthy cells from cancer causing agents, as well as helping to lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease. It is a good source of fibre, vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium and magnesium, can help ease digestion and reduce bloating, and is very helpful for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne. Plus, a little bit of turmeric stirred into soups and stews in the winter months can help to ward off colds.

Pretty impressive for a humble little root!

Turmeric is one of the most widely used Indian ingredients and features in a huge range of Indian dishes, including most curries. However, it is an incredibly versatile ingredient and can be used to lift many other dishes, thanks to its aromatic flavours. A pinch of turmeric added to rice or vegetables whilst cooking will bring a welcome splash of colour and a subtle warmth to your dishes, and it also works brilliantly in egg dishes such as frittata and quiches.

Turmeric has recently enjoyed huge popularity amongst the clean eating crowd and is used to make turmeric tea and turmeric latte. These beverages used to be the preserve of only the super healthy, but you can now easily buy one on your local high street. If you fancy making it yourself at home, try this easy recipe. It also works brilliantly in smoothies; our particular favourite is a savoury carrot, ginger and turmeric mix, which is a powerhouse of antioxidants and tastes delicious: check out a recipe here.

Another brilliant but less well-known way to use turmeric is as a marinade. Simply combine lemon juice, turmeric and finely chopped garlic and onion in a bowl until it has formed a loose paste, pop in a bag with chicken or prawns and place in the fridge overnight. This recipe works particularly well on a barbeque, and will definitely impress friends and family!

Why not introduce this finest of Indian ingredients into your cooking and reap the amazing health benefits? Visit the Akaroo online shop and try turmeric today and get 20% off!