While turmeric has been around for centuries, most people don't realize that it's still one of the most versatile and beneficial spices in the kitchen today. With its earthy aroma and distinctive color, you can add it to any dish to bring an extra pop of flavor to your meal.
But did you know that there are many health benefits of turmeric as well? In fact, it’s been said that turmeric is one of the best kitchen ingredients as it may improve your digestion, boost your immune system, prevent heart disease, and have many other health benefits!
Turmeric is a relative of ginger, and it is a spice that is made from the roots and rhizomes of the turmeric plant. First, the plant is boiled and dried. Then the dried parts are ground into a powder. Fresh turmeric can sometimes be found in stores, but the more commonly used variety is the prepared kind used in cooking.
Most people are familiar with turmeric as a cooking spice, but few know it is also one of nature's most potent and diverse health benefits. Turmeric has been used in Asia for hundreds of years to treat many health conditions. It's been used as a natural antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and pain reliever. Due to its antioxidant properties, it can also help protect against cancer and slow down cellular aging.
So if you're eating more turmeric, are you eating healthy? Due to turmeric's ability to act as an antioxidant, it's been said to help protect your brain. As such, it's one of the best brain foods you can add to your diet. It also can act as an anti-inflammatory agent, manage joint pain, and boost your immune system. In addition, curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) has been thought to help fight depression more effectively than prescription drugs. As if all of that weren't enough: it may even help you lose weight!
There are plenty of ways to add more turmeric into your diet. It is a simple spice that has so many health benefits, so it is worth trying and incorporating it into your cooking, baking, or snacking if you haven't already, and even into a tea!
A pinch of turmeric powder to smoothies, rice, quinoa (when cooking), curries, soups, stir-fries, egg dishes, and dips can enhance any dish.
If you want to add turmeric to your cooking, it tastes good with vegetables, meat, and fish. First, heat some oil in a pan. Then add 1/2 tsp. or so of turmeric to the pan. Stir for a few moments and add cauliflower or another vegetable, meat, or fish to the pan and sauté. You can also make a simple Indian dish called dal by simmering red lentils in water and turmeric and adding some aromatics such as cumin, chopped onions, and garlic.
What's your favorite dish that provides the health benefits of turmeric? Leave a comment and let us know!
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"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act."
Proverbs 3:27 (NIV)