Turmeric Substitute

The scientific name for turmeric is Curcuma longa. It is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant, native to tropical South Asia. Turmeric root appears like ginger root but it is bright orange inside. The root is mostly used in the dried, powdered form. Dry turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root, both impart sharp, slightly bitter flavor and a bright orange color. It is an invariable element of Indian cooking as it adds color to stews and various dishes. Turmeric health benefits are described in Indian ancient Vedas elaborately. It is also used to make 'mustard yellow' color. The root is widely cultivated in India and the Caribbean. Researches and studies are being conducted to find a good turmeric substitute.

Uses of Turmeric

Turmeric, the yellow-orange culinary spice, is popular for color and flavor. Turmeric has been known as poor man's saffron because it offers a less expensive alternative yellow coloring. Curcumin is the primary pigment in turmeric which is generally used as a food color by various food industries. It is mainly used in dairy products, beverages, cereal, confectionery, ice cream, bakery, savory products, flavored milk drinks, cultured milk and desserts to obtain lemon and banana colors in dairy. Turmeric is present in sausages, pickles, relishes, sauces, dry mixes and fish due to its original usage as a spice. It is considered as an effective antiseptic and a flavor enhancing herb. It is popularly used as a skin rejuvenating ingredient in face masks. Thus, turmeric being a truly multipurpose herb, it is difficult to find a turmeric substitute which can offer all these benefits.

Replacing Turmeric

As seen above, there are several uses of turmeric in different areas like medicine, beauty as well as cooking! For color and strong flavor you may use one teaspoon dry mustard powder for 1 teaspoon of turmeric. Dry mustard powder can replace ground turmeric but properties of turmeric are unbeatable and there is no substance which can be described as perfect turmeric substitute. Mustard powder and fenugreek powder may be used for seasoning but they won't be able to play the role of turmeric seasoning. They won't be able to impart the color and flavor of turmeric. You may use turmeric oil if fresh or dry turmeric is not available.

For original color and rich flavor, you may use a pinch of saffron instead of turmeric but saffron is very expensive. Dried turmeric powder can replace fresh turmeric. 1 small piece of fresh turmeric is equal to 1 teaspoon ground turmeric. Some suggest that you may use curry powder in place of turmeric. You may use 1 teaspoon of curry powder for ¼th teaspoon of turmeric. You can prepare and store homemade curry powder. Just take some curry leaves, cumin and coriander and grind them. This powder can offer a good flavor but the taste imparted will be completely different. I think turmeric is nature's gift and it is almost irreplaceable.

Medicinal Properties of Turmeric

Turmeric is recommended in many chicken and fish recipes as it is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent which also offers good color and flavor. Pure turmeric powder is applied directly as a disinfectant on cuts and burns. It helps clear phlegm and reduce spasms of asthma and is hence used as a medicine for asthmatics and as an expectorant for cough. It is helpful as it cures stomach disorders. Raw turmeric rhizome juice is recommended for expelling intestinal worms. Turmeric paste can enhance liver function. It is usually used in combination with sandalwood and milk in beauty therapies to improve the complexion as it prevents skin disorders like spots, acne, dryness or discoloration. It offers you glowing skin.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are out of a specified spice like turmeric, in a recipe, you may just leave it and proceed further. Turmeric substitution can result in the flavor which can never be like the one, originally intended in the recipe. It is wise to use the substitute with half the specified recipe amount. At the end, you can adjust the amount according to your own personal tastes. While trying new recipes, you should always feel free to adjust. You can add a suitable substance to any recipe to suit yourself and your family. Who knows? You just might create a new popular recipe!