So – What Does Turmeric Actually Taste Like?

Turmeric is currently one of the most popular spices on the market. It is being used in a plethora of creative ways by people, mainly owing to the health advantages it is said to provide.

Beyond the intriguing flavor and health benefits that people stand to benefit from when using turmeric spice, another striking feature of turmeric is its vibrant color, which makes it a great addition to many meals and beverages simply for aesthetic reasons.

When it comes to the turmeric root spice, you might say it looks like ginger. India and Southeast Asia are home to this spice, and you are most likely going to find it being used in Indian cooking.

Now that we have an idea of what turmeric is, the next question is, what does turmeric taste like?

What does turmeric taste Like?

Turmeric is a spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant; its flavor is typically characterized as bitter, woody, earthy, and spicy. For the most part, turmeric’s taste and flavor vary depending on the stage of growth, the form it is being consumed, and how it is cooked or combined in dishes.

For instance, turmeric root is considered quite bitter but also has a hint of lemony flavor. At the same time, its powder form is much more bitter than the root but more potent than its root companion, which you must use around four times as much in recipes that call for powdered turmeric if you choose to use fresh turmeric instead.

How to choose turmeric

Turmeric comes in different forms but mainly in its fresh, organic form (root), a powder, or tablets.

When choosing fresh turmeric, avoid roots that look soft, shriveled, or dried out. Instead, aim for firm roots. On the other hand, turmeric powder mixes may differ, but they are unlikely to be significantly different. Many supermarkets also sell turmeric and other spice combinations. However, turmeric generally has a somewhat sweet flavor and an earthy aroma.

In addition to turmeric root and powder, another way you can digest turmeric is through turmeric tablets. This is ideal for people who do not want to use it in recipes but hope to enjoy its health benefits. The advantage of this turmeric form is that they are often combined with other active and nutritional ingredients like black pepper extract and Vitamin D.

Benefits of turmeric

Turmeric has been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries in many regions of the world. It is said to have numerous therapeutic qualities in Ayurvedic medicine. In modern medicine, turmeric plays a vital role in digestion because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Ways to use and store turmeric

Turmeric is a versatile spice that can be used in almost every curry as it is a great way to add flavor to stir-fries, soups, and warm beverages.

Fresh turmeric can last up to two weeks, while turmeric powder can last up to four months, but all these depend on proper storage.

To properly store turmeric powder or root, ensure it is kept in a dark, air-tight container as an airy container can cause it to lose its zesty flavor. In addition, make sure you keep your turmeric container in a cool and dry location, away from heat or direct sunlight.