Tumeric, Buck's Fifth Avenue Spices - 1/2 cup, about 2.0 oz by weight

Turmeric is a fragrant spice powder used primarily in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It makes a great addition to any dish needing some extra kick, and is an important ingredient in curry and some types of mustard. Medical research is exploding regarding the numerous health benefits of turmeric.

Also known as Indian saffron, Turmeric has been used in Indian cuisine for thousands of years and is found in many foods as a food coloring. Turmeric has an earthy taste with hints of mustard, horseradish, ginger, and bitterness. Just a small amount of the spice is necessary; most recipes call for less than 1 teaspoon of turmeric. When turmeric is raw, its sharp bitterness is more profound and, as it’s cooked down, its flavors mellow out and adapt a heartier flavor in the dish.

This spice is a fundamental ingredient in curries, giving curry its distinct yellow color. Turmeric’s flavor goes especially well with rice, couscous, and lentils imparting them with heartier flavors. And turmeric’s yellow-orange color, along with its flavor, can be used to brighten blander white foods like tofu and cauliflower.