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Turmeric

Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa
Did you know that… ?
  1. …turmeric is related to ginger and galangal?
  2. …turmeric has a spicy taste, aroma similar to ginger but stronger?
  3. …turmeric may be used as a less expensive alternative to saffron?
  4. …turmeric is the main ingredient in curry?
  5. …turmeric is also known as golden ginger, golden root or Indian saffron?
  6. …paper soaked in turmeric is used to detect boric acid?
  7. …turmeric powder is very sensitive to light, so it must be stored in darkness?
  8. …turmeric as a spice is the fresh or dried, whole or ground root of the herb Curcuma longa?
Turmeric roots
Recipe

Chicken dopiaza (with two onions)

1 chicken
70 g butter
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1 garlic clove
2 onions
1 teaspoon salt

Portion chicken into ten pieces and rub with paste made of grated onion, garlic, salt and spices. Brown in an oiled or buttered skillet. Slice other onion and sauté. Add I cup water a simmer until tender. Serve with rice.

Story

As a spice, turmeric has been known for over 2,500 years. Indian Vedic culture has turmeric as the most important spice. It is regarded as one of the ancient yellow Persian spices, used in sun worship. It is often regarded as sacred and even today, some Buddhist monks dye their robes with turmeric. It probably came to Europe with Arab traders. Turmeric is still sometimes referred to as the yellow miracle from Asia.