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  • Fun fact: Turmeric can be used as a natural dye to color fabric and food.
  • Turmeric is a member of the Zingiberaceae botanical family which also includes ginger and cardamom.
  • Turmeric is a common ingredient in curry seasonings and has a bright orange to yellow color.
  • The turmeric rhizome, or root, is the part used in cooking and looks similar to fresh ginger root.

Nutrition

  • One teaspoon of turmeric power is an excellent source of manganese.
    • Manganese plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption and blood sugar regulation. It’s also essential for normal brain and nerve function.
  • Turmeric contains curcuminoids, which give turmeric many of its favorable properties. Curcumin, the main curcuminoid, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Emerging research suggests curcumin may be useful in many inflammatory conditions including metabolic syndrome, arthritis and anxiety.
  • The curcumin in turmeric is not well absorbed. Increase absorption of turmeric by combining black pepper in your recipes with turmeric.

How to Purchase, Prepare, and Store

  • Purchase turmeric dried, fresh or in supplements.
  • Dried turmeric can be found in the spice aisle of the most grocery stores and fresh turmeric can be purchased at health food stores and Indian or Asian markets.
  • If you are considering using a turmeric supplement, speak with your physician to ensure it is right for you as some contraindications exist.
  • Select fresh turmeric that is firm. Avoid rhizomes that are soft, dried or shriveled. Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel and placed in an unsealed plastic bag. Turmeric should last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator.
  • Prepare by peeling off the skin of the root and prepare as recommended. Turmeric is easily grated using a grater or can be diced into coins or matchsticks using a knife.
  • Select dried turmeric with a vibrant color. Store away from direct sunlight, in a cool dark place.
  • Use fresh or dried turmeric as an addition to smoothies, teas, dressings or as a seasoning in your favorite protein, grain, soup, or salad dishes. The possibilities are endless.
  • Use caution when preparing turmeric as it easily stains hands, clothing and countertops.

Nutrition Facts

1 tsp. dried turmeric, ground

Calories: 9

Protein: 0.29 g

Fat: 0.10 g

Carbohydrate: 2.01 g

Fiber: 0.68 g

Sugars: 0.09 g

Calcium: 5.0 mg

Magnesium: 6.2 mg

Potassium: 62.4 mg

Vitamin C: 0.02 mg

Folate: 0.6 µg

Vitamin A: 0 IU

Vitamin K: 0 µg

Source: fdc.nal.usda.gov

Recipes

Orange-Carrot Turmeric Ginger Shots

Pineapple Ginger Turmeric Shots

Creamy Turmeric Pasta

Smashed Cucumbers with Turmeric, Coconut & Peanuts

Turmeric Rice

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