Turmeric: A Cook’s Guide to the Golden Spice

Few spices are as instantly recognisable as turmeric. Its warm, earthy flavour and unmistakable golden colour have made it a daily staple in Indian kitchens for generations, in dals, sabzis, curries, rice and pickles.

Here is a cook’s guide to the golden spice: what it is, what gives it that colour, what researchers are curious about, and simple ways to use it every day.

What is turmeric?

Turmeric powder is made from the dried root (rhizome) of Curcuma longa, a plant in the ginger family. The roots are boiled, dried and ground into the fine yellow powder we cook with.

It tastes gently earthy and slightly bitter, with a warm, peppery edge. A little goes a long way: most home recipes use between a quarter and one teaspoon.

Turmeric in Indian food and tradition

Turmeric (haldi) is part of everyday cooking across India, and part of celebrations too. It is used in the haldi ceremony before weddings, in festive cooking, and in the warm turmeric milk (haldi doodh) many families make at home.

In the kitchen it is usually added early, to hot oil or ghee with other spices, which helps release its aroma and takes away any raw taste.

What researchers are curious about

Curcumin has attracted a lot of scientific interest, and researchers around the world continue to study it. It is worth knowing a few things when you read about that research:

• Many studies look at concentrated curcumin extracts or supplements, in amounts far larger than you would get from cooking.
• Research is ongoing and results vary, so findings about extracts cannot simply be applied to turmeric powder used in food.
• Turmeric powder is a culinary spice. It is not a medicine or a supplement, and it is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

Turmeric is traditionally cooked with black pepper, and the two appear together in many Indian spice mixes. Researchers have also looked at how black pepper and turmeric interact, which is one more reason the pairing is well known. In the kitchen, it simply tastes good.

Easy ways to cook with turmeric

Morning Golden Milk Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon Bikaner Turmeric Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions: Heat milk gently, whisk in the spices, simmer for 2–3 minutes and add honey to taste. Enjoy it warm.

Everyday cooking ideas

• Add 1/2 teaspoon to rice while cooking for golden, aromatic grains
• Sprinkle into scrambled eggs, omelettes or besan chilla
• Mix into marinades for paneer, vegetables or chicken
• Stir into dal tadka along with cumin and chilli
• Toss with vegetables and oil before roasting

Buying and storing turmeric

• Look for a bright, even colour and a fresh, earthy aroma.
• Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, with the pack closed.
• Always use a dry spoon, so moisture does not get in and cause clumping.
• Check the best-before date printed on the pack.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turmeric

How much turmeric should I use in cooking?

Most home recipes use between 1/4 and 1 teaspoon for a dish serving four. Start small: too much can taste bitter.

Is it okay to eat turmeric every day?

Turmeric is eaten daily in food across India. If you are pregnant, take medication (especially blood thinners), or plan to take turmeric in large amounts or as a supplement, check with your doctor first.

Why is turmeric often cooked with black pepper?

The two are a traditional pairing in Indian cooking and appear together in many spice mixes. They also taste great together.

Turmeric stained my counter. How do I clean it?

Wipe spills quickly. For stubborn stains on hard surfaces, a paste of baking soda and water usually helps. Sunlight also fades turmeric stains on fabric.

How long does turmeric powder stay fresh?

Stored well, it keeps its colour and aroma for months. Use it by the best-before date printed on the pack.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information about cooking with turmeric. It is not medical advice, and our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional about any health condition, medication or supplement.