Turmeric

So I asked around in the family which ingredient they would like to know more about. These were their responses:

Sis: Ghee

Brother-in-law (Sis’ husband): Potato/banana

Brother-in-law (husband’s bro): Amsul (Do not ask me what it is. I’ll have to do an awful lot of translating and explaining and crazy research on this one!). I secretly think he seeks some evil pleasure in getting on my nerves K)

MIL: Turmeric

I chose Turmeric. Why? Because it seemed the most interesting, least known and most fun to write about J What! You don’t believe that’s the real reason? Come now! It’s true!.

Anyway, enough with that grin now and absorb all that there’s to know about Turmeric.

Turmeric (pronounced tu-mah-ric) is another basic in Indian cooking. 

You know what I think? I think Indian cooking was given birth to/evolved after a LOT of thought and careful consideration. Every ingredient that I can think of has a unique offering. And all combined, you definitely get a wholesome, well-rounded nutritious meal. And that’s exactly what I am attempting to document in this space - write about every ingredient so that when we cook, we know what goes in, how much quantity should go in and should it really go in (henceforth referred to as the ‘Health Alert’ section).

Back to turmeric. Turmeric is an underground stem from the Ginger family. It can be used fresh or boiled and dried to be used as a powder.

Fresh or powdered Turmeric can be used

• to spice vegetables
• to marinate fish/chicken/meat (increases shelf life in addition to adding flavor)
• in pickles
• to make masalas (add to other spices like Garam masala) which can be used ubiquitously in different dishes

Turmeric leaves

Turmeric leaves are used as aromatic herbs in Indian, Thai and Malaysian cooking. I hear fish steamed/baked in Turmeric Leaves is a particular delicacy.

Health & Nutrition

Turmeric is used widely in Ayurvedic medicine. It has curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant. It is also anti-inflammatory. Turmeric is also known to be anti-septic, anti-bacterial and anti-flatulant. “Early laboratory studies have been suggestive that turmeric is liver protective, anti-depressant, anti-retroviral effects.”

For sore throats, mix 1 tsp turmeric in 1 cup of hot milk and drink at night. For minor pain, you’ll get immediate relief. For worse infections, have it for a couple of nights in a row.

Turmeric is also good for the skin for eczema and wound healing.

Here’s a good natural facepack which your skin will thank you for (tried personally numerous times over the years!):

1 tbsp gram flour

a pinch of turmeric powder

1 tsp honey

1 tsp milk/water

Mix the above to make a paste and apply to the face. Keep for 15minutes or until the paste feels dry to the hand. Wash off and feel the smoothness and glow on your face. Let me know whether you like it!

Health Alert!

Turmeric is generally considered safe when taken in small amounts. (Indian food usually does not contain more than 1 tsp per person per day.) Avoid taking large amounts (medicinal amounts/tablets) without doctor’s consultation.

Question for you!

Which ingredient has always made you curious? Leave a comment!

Image Sources:

Fresh Turmeric, Dry Turmeric, Turmeric Plant